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I often get a common question after people attend our 2-day presentation class. “Now that I feel more confident, where do I go to practice to continue to get better as a speaker?” “How can I continue to grow as a great speaker?” The best way to continue to grow is with continued and consistent use of your presentation skills. If you take a public speaking class and then don't present again for a year, your new skills wither away.Today I'll be telling you just how to avoid that! Here is everyway I know of for new presenters to practice their craft!Show Notes: How to Find Great Public Speaking Venues to Practice Your Presentations(https://www.fearlesspresentations.com/podcast-15-how-find-great-venues-practice-your-presentations/)
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Matt Mosich joins host Jason Mudd to discuss what separates professional speakers from aspiring speakers. From storytelling and stage presence to preparation, mindset, and memorable messaging, Matt shares practical insights from years of coaching executives, founders, and business leaders.Tune in to learn more! Meet our guest:Our guest is Matt Mosich, president and owner of The Mosich Group. Matt is a communication and speaker coach for executives, founders, and their teams. He helps clients prepare for and build keynotes, board presentations, podcasts, and media interviews. Five things you'll learn from this episode:1. Why every point needs a story and every story needs a point2. How great speakers collect stories from everyday experiences 3. Why audiences remember sentences, not speeches4. The hidden preparation behind seemingly effortless presentations 5. How to use nerves as an advantage instead of trying to eliminate them Quotables“There are probably thousands of people out there who can speak on your topic. They might have the exact same conclusions that you do. The only difference is how you arrived at them.” — Matt Mosich“The best speakers aren't more creative. They're better at noticing and writing down what everyone else walks past.” — Matt Mosich“People remember sentences, not speeches.” — Matt Mosich“Our mindset is how we observe the world; it's how we live our experience.” — Matt Mosich“You have to show up as a professional in order to get paid like a professional.” — Jason MuddIf you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to share it with a colleague or friend. You may also support us through Buy Me a Coffee or by leaving us a quick podcast review.Guest's contact info and resources:Matt Mosich on LinkedInThe Mosich Group websiteJack SernettMatthew DicksThe Four Agreements BookToastmasters InternationalAdditional Resources:Axia Public Relations' SpeakersBureau serviceListen to more episodes of the On Top of PR with Jason Mudd podcast.Find out more about Axia Public Relations.How to become a TED speakerThe right way to apply for a speaking engagementDon't let your superstar company speaker go unnoticed; promote today!If you like this episode, you're going to love this:Embracing the power of “No” and storytellingHow company executives can become powerful keynote speakersHow to become an excellent TEDx speakerSupport the showOn Top of PR is produced by Axia Public Relations, named by Forbes as one of America's Best PR Agencies. Axia is an expert PR firm for national brands.On Top of PR is sponsored by ReviewMaxer, the platform for monitoring, improving, and promoting online customer reviews.
Your brain isn't broken, lazy, or “addicted to the internet” in some mysterious way. It's doing what it evolved to do: chase rewards, seek safety, and size up social status using a handful of powerful chemicals. We sit down with Loretta Breuning, author of *Habits of a Happy Brain*, to translate dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and cortisol into real life, especially the messy reality of raising kids while trying to stay grounded yourself.We talk about dopamine as the feeling of “I'm about to get something I need,” why that shows up as scrolling, snacking, or shopping, and how to replace one narrow dopamine source with healthier options. Loretta also explains mirror neurons and why kids mirror what we do when we're stressed, soothed, proud, or checked out. If you want children to build a calmer relationship with technology, the starting point is often modeling what balanced use looks like, including intentional breaks and clear stop points.From there we dig into serotonin as the fast, fleeting “I'm winning” signal that drives social comparison for adults and kids alike, plus oxytocin as the reward of earned trust rather than instant connection. We close with cortisol, your brain's built-in reverse gear, and why a 20-minute cooldown can beat any lecture in the middle of a blowup. If you're looking for practical brain science, parenting tools, and a more realistic definition of happiness, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a quick review so more parents can find it.Connect with LorettaGet your free 5-day happy chemical jumpstart here, or visit Loretta on Facebook, Instagram, and X.Welcome to Speak Out Stand Out — the show where we build confidence in our future, one voice at a time. I'm your host, Elizabeth Green.I grew up shy, so I know firsthand how life-changing it can be when someone helps you find your voice. Now, I get to help kids and teens do exactly that — and this podcast is a place to share those tools with you.Each week, I talk with experts and inspiring guests about simple, practical and tangible ways to help the young people in Thanks for listing! Be sure to check out the show notes for additional resources including a free public speaking lesson and 52 fun practice prompts. And if you enjoyed what you heard today, please give us a follow. Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!
What if the stories you've dismissed as “not important enough” are actually the ones your audience needs most?Erin Mark and I explore why storytelling is the bridge between expertise and transformation and why audiences connect far more deeply with emotion, struggle, and humanity than with information alone. Erin shares how she took her deeply personal experience living with cystic fibrosis and transformed it into a keynote message about resilience, uncertainty, identity, and moving forward through change.We also talk about the surprising challenge many women face: not recognizing the power of their own stories because they've lived with them for so long.In this episode, we discuss:How to “universalize” your personal story so others see themselves in itWhy many women struggle to identify their most impactful storiesErin's “Story, Struggle, Solution” frameworkHow coaches can help uncover stories and themes you can't always see yourselfWhy you do not need a dramatic life story to become a compelling speakerHow storytelling can improve podcast interviews, presentations, and thought leadershipThe importance of becoming the messenger your audience needs at exactly the right momentWe also share details about our new Story Scoping coaching package and our upcoming in-person workshop in Orlando!About My Guest: At 35, Erin's life was coming to an end. She had entered end life stage cystic fibrosis: her lungs were failing, she was dying, and time was running out. While most people were training for their next promotion or milestone, she was training to die. And then, at the very last moment, everything changed – a breakthrough medication saved her life. That moment forced Erin into her most important pivot yet: learning how to live again. Her identity had been built around survival. Now, she had to rebuild her purpose, reshape her career, and discover what it meant to truly live. What she discovered is this: pivoting isn't a one-time act, it's a repeatable skill. Whether it's a reorg, a layoff, a leadership shift, or a personal loss, every “before and after” moment is a pivot point and it requires a new kind of leadership. Perfect for corporate teams, associations, and leadership conferences, Erin's keynotes are more than inspiration. They're a mindset reset and a tactical playbook for anyone navigating change or facing an uncertain next chapter.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/475/ Erin's website: https://erinmark.com/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Work with Erin to scope your story: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/work-with-us/story-coaching/ Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Attend our 1-day speaking workshop in Orlando: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/ Connect on LinkedIn:Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxErin Mark (guest) = https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmark/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 462: Speaking Strategies That Create Lasting Impact: Live Signature Talks from TLA Grads
Ready to begin your journey of healing? It's time to reclaim your life with elite and discreet premium psychotherapy with Dr. Gregory T. Obert;
Today I am joined by coach Amy Brink-Peterson. From her bio: Amy Brink-Peterson helps vegan and plant-based advocates who are feeling run-down, depleted and frustrated to access their brilliance and become influential changemakers. As a certified plant-based health coach, she supports advocates in rebuilding their health, resilience, and vitality — so they can lead sustainably and thrive for the long haul. Her approach weaves together expertise in whole-foods plant-based living and a transformative Woman-Centered Coaching methodology, moving beyond behavior change to spark deep identity transformation — empowering clients to step into their full potential as leaders and visionaries.Drawing on her own journey through burnout and the profound, challenging, and beautiful transformation of becoming a mother (matrescence), Amy is passionate about helping others treat their health as the foundation it truly is — not just for personal wellbeing, but for lasting impact in the world. She believes veganism is a practice of loving kindness that extends not only to non-human animals, but to ourselves as well.Amy is trained and certified by Food Revolution Network and continues to expand her expertise through advanced training with The Institute for Woman-Centered Coaching and collaboration with vegan psychologist Clare Mann. Based in the Netherlands, she offers coaching (online) in both English and Dutch to clients around the world.To connect with Amy:Website: https://www.coachamy.nlJoin a free upcoming workshop with Amy / join the waitlist: https://www.coachamy.nl/workshopsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisispeterson/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
Public Speaking is the ability to deliver concise, engaging, and meaningful messages that help leaders connect with their audience, share insight with confidence, and inspire practical action. "You don't have to be perfect; you just have to be present." Salvatore Manzi Salvatore Manzi is a leadership communications coach who helps leaders amplify their voice and impact in high-stakes moments. He's coached speakers at the United Nations, guided founders through major fundraising rounds—including one that exceeded its goal by $100 million—and helped scientists present to national decision-makers. Through practical frameworks, he helps leaders communicate with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. His book, Clear and Compelling, releasing October 2026, turns neuroscience and decades of coaching into actionable strategies for influence. Favorite snack is Smoke House almonds. Leadership Communications LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Music-"Homesick" Copyright 2018. Written by Shireen Amini. Produced by Shireen Amini and Mike Davidson of Plaid Dog Recording (Boston, MA).
"I finally realized I was not paying for a service. I was paying for hope. And hope is not a business strategy."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! Fair warning — host Dan Irvin is ruffling some feathers in this one. In this solo episode, he takes on one of the most common "shortcuts" speakers chase: the speaker bureau.Dan has personally signed up with about a dozen of them. Paid the fees, built the profiles, sent the demo reels, connected with the reps. Total paid gigs booked across all of them? Zero. Meanwhile, he's doing 40+ events a year using the exact process he teaches at The Speaker Lab. So either he's unbookable — or something about the bureau model is broken. In this episode, he breaks down exactly what bureaus are actually selling, who they actually work for, and what to do instead.You'll hear about:Why the bureau pitch is so appealing — and why it almost never delivers what it promisesThe difference between a booking machine and a listing service (most bureaus are the second one)The four things bureaus won't help you with: positioning, marketing assets, coaching, and actual speaking experienceWhy the speakers who get booked through bureaus are almost always speakers who were already booking themselvesThe bureau is an amplifier, not an engine — and why most speakers have the order completely backwardsDan's personal nine-month bureau experiment: paid the fee, sent everything, got zero leads — and a vague email when he finally asked what they'd done with his profileThe story of a woman who signed with three bureaus, paid onboarding fees, and started wondering if she was even cut out for speaking (she was — the system was the problem)Why the bureau model quietly destroys speaker confidence by making you think you're the problemThe three things that actually get speakers booked: owning your system, working with guides who are in the trenches, and building the wraparound infrastructureWhy the talk is only 15% of the equation — and how bureaus won't touch the other 85%And much, much more!"Stop renting somebody else's process. Build your own. That is where the freedom is. That is where the income is. That is where the calendar full of gigs you actually want comes from."Tried a bureau and hit a wall? It's not you — it's the model. Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and talk with someone who's actively getting booked and paid right now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The hidden habits behind calm, confident communicators.What does it really take to become a more confident communicator? In this special collaboration between Think Fast, Talk Smart and Headspace, host Matt Abrahams shares practical, mindful strategies for speaking with clarity, managing anxiety, listening more deeply, and connecting more authentically with others.Across five short lessons, Matt outlines how to calm speaking nerves, become a better listener, structure your ideas clearly, engage any audience, and strengthen your presence — whether you're leading a meeting, giving a presentation, or navigating everyday conversations.Whether you're speaking to a crowd or having a one-on-one conversation, these tools can help you communicate with more confidence, calm, and connection.Episode Reference Links:Headspace 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 (03:36) - Speaking Anxiety (08:42) - Mindful Communication (13:51) - Clarity & Structure (17:28) - Creating Engagement (24:53) - Building Presence (29:55) - 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.Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
As speakers, we all have a powerful message that we know can create a massive impact. But if your positioning is off, or if your execution misses the mark, that message gets lost in the noise—and you lose momentum. On this episode of The Wealthy Speaker Podcast, we are taking a deep dive into how to strategically anchor your message so it truly resonates with your audience. I am thrilled to welcome messaging strategist Neil Gordon to break down exactly how to elevate your content, take control of your narrative, and ensure your message creates the great change you intend. Highlights you won't want to miss: Turn Your Message Into a Movement with Neil Gordon 0:00 Neil started in publishing 1:00 Finding the right voice 4:00 What drives value? 6:00 The aspects of persuasive communication 11:00 Narrowing your message 17:30 A simple tweak 21:30 Research matters 24:30 See you next time 27:51 If you want some great ideas on how to turn your message into a movement, 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/
Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Blossoming Confidence: Overcoming Stage Fright at Keukenhof Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2026-05-28-07-38-19-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In de lente, als de tulpen bloeien en de zon zachtjes schijnt over de Keukenhof, bereiden de leerlingen zich voor op de diploma-uitreiking.En: In the spring, when the tulips are blooming and the sun softly shines over de Keukenhof, the students prepare for graduation.Nl: Sanne, een ijverige en bedachtzame leerling, loopt zenuwachtig door de kleurrijke tuinen.En: Sanne, a diligent and thoughtful student, walks nervously through the colorful gardens.Nl: Ze houdt van planten en bloemen, vooral tulpen.En: She loves plants and flowers, especially tulips.Nl: De Keukenhof is haar favoriete plek om te ontspannen.En: De Keukenhof is her favorite place to relax.Nl: Vandaag voelt Sanne zich echter gespannen.En: Today, however, Sanne feels tense.Nl: Ze moet spreken tijdens de ceremonie.En: She has to speak during the ceremony.Nl: Ze heeft haar speech goed voorbereid, maar de gedachte aan spreken voor een groot publiek maakt haar zenuwachtig.En: She has prepared her speech well, but the thought of speaking in front of a large audience makes her nervous.Nl: Ze loopt langs de rode, gele en paarse tulpen, terwijl ze in gedachten haar speech oefent.En: She walks past the red, yellow, and purple tulips, practicing her speech in her mind.Nl: Joris en Renate, haar beste vrienden, zien haar lopen en komen begroeten.En: Joris and Renate, her best friends, see her walking and come to greet her.Nl: "Alles goed, Sanne?"En: "Everything okay, Sanne?"Nl: vraagt Joris.En: asks Joris.Nl: "Niet echt," geeft Sanne toe.En: "Not really," Sanne admits.Nl: "Ik maak me zorgen over de speech."En: "I'm worried about the speech."Nl: Renate glimlacht bemoedigend.En: Renate smiles encouragingly.Nl: "Je kunt het, Sanne.En: "You can do it, Sanne.Nl: We geloven in je."En: We believe in you."Nl: Ze nemen haar mee naar een rustig pad tussen de bloemen.En: They take her to a quiet path among the flowers.Nl: De geur is rustgevend en de kleuren stralen vrolijkheid uit.En: The scent is soothing and the colors radiate joy.Nl: Met hun steun voelt Sanne zich kalmer.En: With their support, Sanne feels calmer.Nl: Ze besluit haar speech nog één keer te oefenen, alleen dit keer met een echte publiek.En: She decides to practice her speech one more time, but this time with a real audience.Nl: Joris en Renate luisteren aandachtig en geven haar tips.En: Joris and Renate listen attentively and give her tips.Nl: "Adem diep in, en uit," zegt Renate zachtjes.En: "Breathe in deeply, and out," Renate says softly.Nl: "Vergeet niet te glimlachen," voegt Joris toe.En: "Don't forget to smile," adds Joris.Nl: De grote dag breekt aan.En: The big day arrives.Nl: De tuinen zijn prachtig versierd voor de ceremonie.En: The gardens are beautifully decorated for the ceremony.Nl: Het podium is omringd door straaltjes zonlicht en bloeiende bloemen.En: The stage is surrounded by streams of sunlight and blooming flowers.Nl: Sanne staat op en loopt naar het podium.En: Sanne stands up and walks to the podium.Nl: Haar handen trillen een beetje, maar ze denkt aan Joris en Renate.En: Her hands tremble a little, but she thinks of Joris and Renate.Nl: Ze staan vooraan, lachend en knikkend.En: They are at the front, smiling and nodding.Nl: Sanne begint te spreken.En: Sanne begins to speak.Nl: Haar stem hapert even, maar dan ontmoet ze de ogen van haar vrienden.En: Her voice falters for a moment, but then she meets the eyes of her friends.Nl: Hun blikken geven haar kracht.En: Their gazes give her strength.Nl: Ze ademt diep in en herpakt zich.En: She takes a deep breath and regains her composure.Nl: "Beste vrienden en leraren," begint ze opnieuw, "vandaag staan we hier in deze prachtige tuin, klaar voor een nieuw hoofdstuk."En: "Dear friends and teachers," she begins again, "today we stand here in this beautiful garden, ready for a new chapter."Nl: De woorden vloeien nu soepel.En: The words now flow smoothly.Nl: Sanne spreekt over haar liefde voor de natuur, over hoe de tulpen haar geleerd hebben schoonheid te zien in eenvoud, en over de steun van haar klasgenoten en vrienden.En: Sanne speaks about her love for nature, about how the tulips taught her to see beauty in simplicity, and about the support of her classmates and friends.Nl: Ze eindigt met een dankbetuiging die recht uit haar hart komt.En: She ends with a heartfelt thank you.Nl: De stilte na haar laatste woorden lijkt eeuwig te duren, maar dan klinkt een luid applaus.En: The silence after her final words seems to last forever, but then loud applause erupts.Nl: Haar klasgenoten springen op voor een staande ovatie.En: Her classmates rise for a standing ovation.Nl: Sanne straalt van vreugde en opluchting.En: Sanne beams with joy and relief.Nl: Na de ceremonie loopt Sanne met Joris en Renate door de bloementuinen.En: After the ceremony, Sanne walks with Joris and Renate through the flower gardens.Nl: "Ik wist dat je het kon," zegt Joris trots.En: "I knew you could do it," says Joris proudly.Nl: "Ja," zegt Renate, "je hebt ons allemaal geraakt met je woorden."En: "Yes," says Renate, "you touched us all with your words."Nl: Sanne lacht.En: Sanne laughs.Nl: Haar angst voor spreken is veranderd in zelfvertrouwen.En: Her fear of speaking has transformed into confidence.Nl: De Keukenhof, met zijn prachtige bloemen en steun van vrienden, heeft haar de moed gegeven die ze nodig had.En: De Keukenhof, with its beautiful flowers and the support of friends, has given her the courage she needed.Nl: Ze weet nu dat haar stem en haar boodschap ertoe doen.En: She now knows that her voice and her message matter. Vocabulary Words:diligent: ijverigethoughtful: bedachtzamenervously: zenuwachtigceremony: ceremonieaudience: publiektense: gespannensoothing: rustgevendradiate: stralencomposure: herpaktfalter: haperenapplause: applausovation: ovatiebeam: stralenrelief: opluchtinggreet: begroetenencouragingly: bemoedigendblossoming: bloeiendtremble: trillengaze: blikkenstrength: krachtbreathe: ademenerupt: klinkenquiet: rustigpath: padsoothe: rustgevend (soothe)flow: vloeienstream: straaltjesdecorate: versierdconfidence: zelfvertrouwencourage: moed
Nausheen I. Chen is a 3-time TEDx speaker, a Public Speaking instructor for the Executive MBA program at Central European University and Wesleyan, and a LinkedIn Learning Instructor with 600,000+ followers across LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. Nausheen coaches leaders at Google, Amazon, NASA and the UN as well as startup founders to speak fearlessly. Her clients have raised more than $115 million through winning investor pitches and successful exits. You can connect with her on: nausheen@speaking.coach. Summary: Public speaking coach Nausheen Chen joins Lyndsay Dowd to break down the real reasons people freeze under the spotlight — and the practical framework she uses to turn nervous executives and introverted entrepreneurs into compelling, confident communicators. Key takeaways: - Nervousness on camera isn't a personality flaw - The three-level speaking framework - Better pitching = better deals - Authenticity is the strategy Episode chapters: 0:00 Intro & episode preview 1:03 Nausheen's origin story 3:33 From filmmaker to speaking coach 6:06 The purple hair strategy 9:39 Speaking to investors: a $65M case study 14:18 Know your story before you tell it 16:39 The speaker's toolkit: voice, energy & body language 20:47 What inspires Nausheen 22:52 Legacy, ideal clients & what's next 24:49 Final advice & how to connect
Undiscovered Entrepreneur ..Start-up, online business, podcast
Did you like the episode? Send me a text and let me know!! How Fear, Failure & a Cleaning Company Changed Everything | Todd Krause | Undiscovered Entrepreneur Episode: Get Across the Start Line Guest: Todd Krause, Founder of Silver Sun Consulting Topics: Entrepreneurship, Fear of Failure, Starting a Business, Workplace Culture, Public Speaking, Sales Mindset Episode Summary Todd Krause — entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and founder of Silver Sun Consulting — shares his raw, honest journey from hedge funds and corporate finance to getting fired, buying a cleaning company, and building a thriving business with staff from 14 countries. If you're a new entrepreneur paralyzed by fear, this episode will change how you think about risk, failure, and starting over. Chapter Markers [00:00] — Introduction & Todd's entrepreneurial background[02:00] — From hedge funds & private equity to owning businesses[04:00] — Overcoming public speaking fear & imposter syndrome[08:00] — Todd's TEDx talk: thriving workplaces & people-first leadership[10:00] — Why fear is the #1 thing stopping new entrepreneurs[13:00] — FEAR: False Evidence Appearing Real[17:00] — Getting fired, hitting rock bottom & finding opportunity[19:00] — Buying a cleaning company & building a diverse team[23:00] — Bite-sized steps: how to actually start your business[29:00] — Why perfectionism kills momentum[31:00] — Every no gets you closer to yes: the sales mindset[37:00] — Todd's goals: 100 podcasts, speaking reel & consulting clients Books & Resources Mentioned
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What keeps us from being more social? Nick Epley calls it a “mind-reading mistake.”We all think about what others think, particularly what they think about us. The problem, says Nick Epley, is that we're almost always wrong.Epley is a professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and author of A Little More Social: How Small Choices Create Unexpected Happiness, Health, and Connection. What keeps people from engaging authentically, connecting deeply, and enjoying a meaningful social life? It comes down to an error of social cognition, “A mind-reading mistake,” Epley says. “If I don't think you want to talk to me, I won't try. And I'll never find out that I'm wrong about that.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Epley and host Matt Abrahams explore why we hold ourselves back from meaningful conversation, and what happens when we don't. From taking an interest in others to sharing more freely about ourselves, Epley shares strategies for being a little more social — and making your life considerably better as a result.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Nick EpleyNick's Book: A Little More SocialEp.133 From Good to Super: How Supercommunicators Unlock the Language of Connection 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 (01:31) - Problems with Body Language (04:15) - Perspective Getting (07:14) - Asking Better Questions (08:41) - Moving Beyond Small Talk (10:13) - Why We Hold Back (11:33) - Advice For Introverts (15:17) - A Little More Social (18:34) - The Final Three Questions (24:45) - Conclusion
In this episode, I sit down with Teri DeLucca for a candid conversation about what really happens behind the scenes in the speaking industry, from getting your first speaking engagements to negotiating fees, navigating “pay-to-play” conferences, and building the confidence to take bigger stages.Teri shares how she went from feeling intimidated and unsure if she belonged on stage to becoming an in-demand speaker traveling across the country. We talk openly about the realities many speakers face but few discuss publicly: speaking for free, undercharging, the gender pay gap in speaking fees, networking with other speakers, and learning to see speaking not as performance — but as service.We also dive into Teri's new AI platform, Luma, a human-centered AI “thinking partner” designed to support educators and leaders with communication, stress management, organizational culture, and decision-making. Plus, she shares exciting news about becoming a finalist for a grant funded through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation focused on women and AI innovation.If you've ever wondered:How speakers actually get bookedWhen to speak for free (and when not to)How to raise your speaking fees with confidenceWhat event organizers don't tell speakersHow AI is changing leadership and workOr whether you really have what it takes to speak……this conversation is for you.About Our Guest: Dr. Teri DeLucca is a developmental psychologist and the founder of Impact Early Education, which equips leaders with strategies that improve outcomes for children, teams, and businesses. She holds a dual PhD and previously worked as a research scientist specializing in teacher-child interactions and early intervention in neurocognitive and social-emotional development. Dr. DeLucca has successfully operated schools, reducing staff turnover, strengthening school culture, and driving sustainable growth. In addition to her work in education, she speaks nationally to corporate organizations and women's groups on personal leadership, communication, resilience, and coaching strategies. She is a published author, award-winning researcher, speaker, and recognized leader in the industry.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/474/ Teri's website: https://impactearlyed.com/ 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/carolcoxTeri DeLucca (guest) = https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-teri-delucca-46b296200/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 338: Escaping the Expert Trap: From Academic Presenter to Sought-After Speaker with Teri DeLucca
Hello voices from the bench community, John Wilson here and I wanted to share some news about the evolution of the Programill lineup. Most importantly, Ivoclar's new PrograMill 7. What stands out right away is the reduced air consumption this mill requires, but what you'll notice first is that impressive new touchscreen. For us, the biggest advantage has been increased spindle power. My laboratory's known for these larger cases with complex geometries, and I can tell you that extra power really makes a difference. Next time you see your Ivoclar representative, be sure to ask about the PrograMill 7 and tell them John Wilson sent you. Thank you. At exocad Insights in beautiful Mallorca, we finally caught up with Felix from Imagine USA—and the timing couldn't have been better. As an exocad dealer on the front lines of digital dentistry, Felix shared his excitement about the strong turnout, the familiar faces, and most importantly, the innovation coming from exocad. What stood out most? The new exocad Hub and its cloud-based capabilities, along with powerful AI-driven tools inside DentalDB designed for efficient batch processing. For Felix and the Imagine team, it's not just about seeing what's new—it's about putting it to the test. By running new features through their own production facility first, they ensure real-world performance before bringing solutions to their customers. Beyond the technology, Felix emphasized the value of being there in person—connecting face-to-face with partners, having meaningful conversations, and stepping back to see where the industry is headed. And of course, doing it all in Mallorca doesn't hurt either. "LIVE" again at the 2026 DLAT meeting, two very different conversations came together around one common theme: the future of dental technology is still being shaped by passionate people willing to learn, teach, and adapt. First, the podcast catches up with returning guest Tiffany Prater from Destination Orthodontic Lab, who shares how her lab journey has evolved from running a large commercial space with employees to building a smaller, more personal business focused on private practices and hands-on craftsmanship. Alongside her is Sydney Ribera, a young technician discovering orthodontics through mentorship, creativity, and a fascination with bending wire and pouring colorful acrylic retainers. The conversation dives into the realities of learning ortho in today's digital world, the importance of organizations like the Orthodontic Resource Group, and why mentorship still matters more than ever in a profession where most of the training happens shoulder-to-shoulder. Then the crew sits down with Marlin Gohn from Argen to talk about everything from next-generation zirconia to massive dental labs in China and the surprisingly common mistakes labs make when choosing disc sizes for milling. Marlin breaks down Argen's new gradient translucency zirconia, explains why nesting strategy matters more than most labs realize, and shares real-world troubleshooting tips that can save labs time, money, and remakes. The conversation also wanders through SLM frameworks, milled gold crowns, PFMs, translating lectures in China, and why some old-school techniques still outperform the newest trends. Special Guests: Marlin Gohn CDT, Sydney Ribera, and Tiffany Prater CDT.
Alec manages high-stake moments across a variety of industries. Whether he is playing under the lights of the NFL or speaking to an assembly of students, nerves come into play. It's natural. What are some ways he manages his nerves? How about techniques for public speaking? Today we dive into all of that and more - Welcome back to the Forged Ingold Podcast!If you like the show please subscribe and leave a 5 star rating - that and texting it to a friend are the easiest ways you can help us grow. We appreciate you!
I've been to a lot of conferences lately and there's one thing that keeps coming up: Man, we sometimes just suck at public speaking . The information is good, but the delivery plain old sucks.And, I get it. You're probably asking yourself now: "I'm never gonna teach a class, host a podcast, or become famous - so why should it matter to me?" or "I'm a serious firefighter and people don't care how I speak. The information is good and that is enough." Well, I'm here to shed a light on a thought - public speaking is a useful and often discounted skill that can be used with an audience of 1 just as easily and effectively as an audience of 1,000 - and we owe it to ourselves and our maker to build that skill and use it for good. Let's dig in.________________________________________________As always, I don't claim to be an expert, I just love to talk fire and I'm not afraid to get into real & deep discussions. Everything I say is my own opinion and does not reflect the opinions of any agency or organization I am associated with.Have a topic or question you want me to cover? Know someone who would like to be a guest on the podcast? Let me know! Get Official Podcast Merch at couplingsfirepodcast.myspreadshop.com For 15% off of Flame Decon, use code "couplings15" at checkout! www.FlameDecon.comFind my favorite fire conferences: linktr.ee/couplingsfirepodcastBe sure to let me know what you thought of the podcast by leaving a rating, review, and by reaching out! couplingsfirepodcast@gmail.comFind me on Social Media! Facebook: www.facebook.com/CouplingsFirePodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/couplingsfirepodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC75ze7HT8IAlVYwV1y5Aosg
Today, I am joined by author and investigator Gail A. Eisnitz. Gail is the winner of the Albert Schweitzer Medal for outstanding achievement in animal welfare, is the chief investigator for the Humane Farming Association. Her work has resulted in exposés by ABC's Good Morning America, PrimeTime Live, and Dateline NBC, and her interviews have been heard on more than 1600 radio stations. Her work has also been featured in such newspapers as The New York Times, Miami Herald, Detroit Free Press, Texas Monthly, Denver Business Journal, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, and US News & World Report.To learn more about Gail, her book Out of Sight, and the Humane Farming Association:visit the HFA website at hfa.orgTo learn more about Gail's book: https://hfa.org/pdf/out-of-sight-book.pdfTo buy Gail's book: https://a.co/d/06a9Jy3d or your local bookstoreTo learn more about Humane Farming Association (HFA) website: hfa.org and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TheHumaneFarmingAssociationTo 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
Communication coach Susie Ashfield explains why most people overcomplicate speaking, presentations and interviews.We talk about public speaking fear, imposter syndrome, storytelling, body language, why PowerPoints often fail, and how to land one clear message people actually remember.This episode is for anyone who wants to communicate better, speak with more confidence and stop overthinking
"Preparation feels like progress. It's not."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! After thousands of calls with speakers at every stage, host Dan Irvin has noticed something: it stops sounding like thousands of different stories and starts sounding like the same three. The names change. The cities change. The topics change. But the place where people are stuck? Almost always one of three patterns.In this solo episode, Dan breaks down the three speaker archetypes he sees on repeat — the Two-Year Thinker, the One and Done, and the Plateaued Earner — and gives you the honest, direct truth about what's actually keeping each one stuck. If you hear yourself in one of these today, that's not a bad sign. That's the first move.You'll learn:Why studying, researching, and redesigning your logo for the third time is not the same as building a speaking businessWhy "I just need to figure out my topic first" is almost always code for something elseWhat happens when a great talk goes nowhere — and why it's not because the moment was a flukeWhy the relationship and the room were always the real asset (not the talk)How speakers who are already getting paid hit a wall — and why it's a strategy problem, not a skill problemWhy the thing that got you a $1,000 fee will not get you a $10,000 feeHow Dan went from a self-described two-year thinker to eventually buying the company that taught himThe one thing all three archetypes have in common — and what actually breaks the patternWhy "my situation is different" might be the most expensive sentence in your speaking businessWhat 17,000 speakers who've broken through all have in commonAnd much, much more!"You are not lacking talent. You're not lacking passion. You're not lacking a message. You're lacking a system."--Heard yourself in one of those patterns? That's exactly the conversation Dan has on every Speaker Business Assessment call. Grab a free 15 minutes at thespeakerlab.com/SBA — no pitch, just 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.
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lisette Sanchez, psychologist and founder of Calathea Wellness to talk about what it really looks like to navigate visibility, success, and personal growth as a first-generation woman. We discuss perfectionism, imposter syndrome, public speaking, success guilt, and the challenge of building a life that honors both where you come from and where you want to go. It's an honest conversation about healing, self-trust, and giving yourself permission to take up space. Connect with Dr. Lisette Sanchez: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefirstgenpsychologist/ Website: https://lisettesanchez.com Wellness Cards: https://lisettesanchez.com/wellness-cards Featured Articles: https://www.oprahmag.com/health-wellness/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Connection 01:56 Dr. Lisette's Journey & Becoming The First Gen Psychologist 03:54 The First-Generation Experience & Mental Health 06:08 Visibility, Public Speaking & Being Seen 09:01 Perfectionism & Imposter Syndrome 10:52 Overcoming the Fear of Visibility 14:08 Success Guilt & Its Impact on Growth 25:12 Releasing Self-Limiting Beliefs 26:34 Honoring Your Ancestors' Sacrifices 28:33 The Gift of Access, Information & Resources 30:08 Perfectionism, Progress & Self-Trust 33:04 Defining Success Beyond Traditional Metrics 36:33 Authenticity, Healing & Personal Growth 43:05 Finding Your Own Pace & Trusting Your Journey
For more, visit: https://www.BishalSarkar.comMessage us directly: https://wa.me/918880361526Public speaking is surrounded by myths and lies that hold people back from becoming powerful communicators. In this episode, Bishal Sarkar breaks down the 6 most common myths about public speaking—and shows you the truth that top speakers know.You'll discover:Why “memorizing everything” is a terrible ideaThe truth about whether you need “perfect English” to inspire peopleWhy stage fear is not your enemy—and how to turn it into confidenceIf you've ever believed that public speaking is only for “naturals,” this episode will completely change your perspective.
Cathey Armillas built her career the way most people are told not to. She doesn't separate what she loves from what she sells. Her sneaker collection became a filter for clients. Her obsession with waterfalls became a corporate training product. Her decades as a competitive softball pitcher became her coaching methodology. Her background in marketing psychology became her speaking framework.She coaches TED speakers and executives to do the same. To stop becoming a flatter version of themselves the moment they walk into a professional space, and to trust that what makes them recognisable outside of work is exactly what will make them land inside it.She has a name for what happens when people don't believe who they are is enough: voice masking. Her argument is that the moment an audience senses someone performing instead of connecting, they stop listening. Not consciously. Viscerally. And no amount of memorisation fixes that.We talked about the wall we are told to build between our personal and professional lives, and why Cathey's career is a case for replacing the bricks with glass so you can see what's on the other side and decide what's worth bringing through.Links to learn more about Cathey Armillas:WebsiteLinkedInSpeaker Skills AcademyAny thoughts? Share them with us!Support the show✨✨✨If you miss the "workshops work" podcast, join us on Substack, where Myriam builds a Podcast Club with monthly gatherings around old episodes: https://myriamhadnes.substack.com/
Your teen is upset, you're frustrated, and suddenly a simple “no” turns into a full-blown argument. That moment can feel impossible to recover from, especially when you're trying to hold boundaries and still keep your relationship intact. We wanted a practical, real-life way to bring the temperature down without shutting the conversation down.We're joined by Amy Saloner, a parent and teen coach focused on adolescent well-being, resilience, and helping young people grow into confident, on-purpose adults. Amy shares her Five C's of communication: calm, consent, communicate, curiosity, and clarity. We talk about why you can't solve problems from an escalated emotional state, how asking “Is now a good time to talk?” prevents unnecessary blowups, and how a simple nonviolent communication map (observations, feelings, needs, requests) can turn blame into collaboration.We also dig into what many parents need most: rupture and repair. When you react out of fear, you can still go back, take responsibility, apologize, and reconnect. Amy explains why “connect before correct” matters, how reflective listening builds emotional safety, and why these skills shape everything from friendships and college transitions to leadership, negotiation, and healthy boundaries.Subscribe for more practical parenting tools, share this with a friend raising teens, and leave a review so more families can find these communication skills. What's the hardest part for you right now: staying calm, getting consent, or staying curious?Connect with AmyGet your own copy of The Cs of Communication and The Communication Map here, or find her on Facebook or Instagram. Welcome to Speak Out Stand Out — the show where we build confidence in our future, one voice at a time. I'm your host, Elizabeth Green.I grew up shy, so I know firsthand how life-changing it can be when someone helps you find your voice. Now, I get to help kids and teens do exactly that — and this podcast is a place to share those tools with you.Each week, I talk with experts and inspiring guests about simple, practical and tangible ways to help the young people in Thanks for listing! Be sure to check out the show notes for additional resources including a free public speaking lesson and 52 fun practice prompts. And if you enjoyed what you heard today, please give us a follow. Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!
The skills you bring from the court to the classroom. Morgann Gardner played basketball for thirteen years. Thirteen years of 5 a.m. workouts, 6 a.m. lifts, two-a-day practices, and the kind of discipline that follows you out of the gym. Now she's a graduate teaching assistant at UNO, teaching Public Speaking Fundamentals to a room full of nervous first-year speakers. Morgann came to UNO from Racine, Wisconsin, on a recruiting visit her mom drove her out for from a tournament in Iowa. She committed after one mini campus tour, and stayed for an undergrad degree in JMC Emerging Media, an Outstanding Student of the Year award for 2024-2025, and a last-minute leap into the master's program she wasn't sure she'd get into. Her advice for current and future student athletes: stick with it, talk to your professors, and remember that the hard part is mental, not physical. Watch on YouTube, listen on your favorite podcast app, and subscribe to Comm in Ten. #StudentAthlete #StudentSuccess#CommInTen #OnceAMaverick #UNOmaha #StudentAthlete #PublicSpeaking
Most leaders are exceptionally good at their jobs. They've built careers on performance. They are respected, trusted, and delivering results. However, when asked how are you performing in the most important leadership role you hold? The answer is almost always the same. A pause and then, not as well as I should be.In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule tackles one of the most underserved conversations in leadership the real, honest cost of senior leadership on family life. An honest examination of the role most leaders are quietly failing at without ever realising it's happening and what the leaders who get it right actually do differently.KEY TAKEAWAYSThe slow erosion: how entirely reasonable decisions compound into a pattern that quietly reshapes your home life.The guilt loop most leaders carry silently and how it compounds the very problem it responds to.Four specific behaviours the leaders who navigate this well actually practice.RELATED EPISODES FROM THE ARCHIVEEpisode 110 - My Enough Is Enough Moment and How It Changed Me as a Leader and a PersonEpisode 106 - When Performance Stops Being Worth It: A Conversation Leaders Rarely Admit They're HavingEpisode 119 - Strip Away the Title. Who's Left?ENJOYED THE EPISODE?James works with senior leaders, CEOs, and founders who want to perform at the highest level without losing what matters most in the process. If this conversation has prompted something for you professionally or personally James would genuinely love to hear from you.You can reach him directly via LinkedIn or through the website below. Everything shared is in complete confidence.If this resonated, the single most valuable thing you can do is share it with one person who needs to hear it. A leader you know who is carrying this quietly, a colleague who is building something significant and paying a price at home they haven't fully examined yet.A five-star review on your preferred platform also makes an enormous difference in helping this podcast reach the leaders who need it most. It takes thirty seconds and it matters more than you know.ABOUT THE HOST James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance. CONNECT & CONTACT www.thelonelyleader.co.ukThe Lonely Leader's LinkedIn James' LinkedInInstagramhello@thelonelyleader.co.uk THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA NEWSLETTERSign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Top 10 Tips for Combating Your Fear of Public Speaking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Young Innovators Rise: Haruto's Tokyo Startup Challenge Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2026-05-19-07-38-19-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 東京の春、ゴールデンウィークに活気あふれるスタートアップ・インキュベーター。En: Spring in Tokyo, during Golden Week, a vibrant startup incubator buzzes with activity.Ja: ここでは毎年、若いイノベーターたちが集い、新しいアイデアをプレゼンテーションします。En: Every year, young innovators gather here to present new ideas.Ja: ワークステーションが並び、最先端のガジェットが輝くこの場所が、ハルトとユキの挑戦の舞台です。En: Lined with workstations and gleaming with cutting-edge gadgets, this is the stage for Haruto and Yuki's challenge.Ja: ハルトは高校生で、いつか自分のテック会社を立ち上げることを夢見ていました。En: Haruto is a high school student dreaming of one day starting his own tech company.Ja: しかし今日、彼の心には不安が募ります。人前で話すのが苦手だからです。En: Yet today, anxiety fills his heart because he struggles with speaking in front of people.Ja: ハルトの隣には、エネルギッシュでいつもアイデア満載の友達、ユキがいます。En: Beside him is his energetic friend, Yuki, who is always bursting with ideas.Ja: ユキは、ハルトの計画に新しい風を吹き込む存在です。En: Yuki breathes new life into Haruto's plans.Ja: プレゼンテーションの時間が近づきます。ハルトは迷っていました。En: As the presentation time approaches, Haruto hesitates.Ja: 保守的なプランで行くべきか、それともユキの突飛なアイデアを取り入れてインパクトを狙うべきか。En: Should he go with a conservative plan, or should he incorporate Yuki's unconventional ideas to make an impact?Ja: 彼は息を深く吸い込んで、ユキの案を組み込むことに決めました。En: He takes a deep breath and decides to integrate Yuki's suggestions.Ja: 失敗は恐れない。En: He's not afraid of failure.Ja: その気持ちでステージに立ちます。En: With that spirit, he steps onto the stage.Ja: 観客の中には、投資家やメンターがいます。En: In the audience are investors and mentors.Ja: 彼らの注目を一身に集めながら、ハルトは自信を持って話し始めました。En: Gathering all their attention, Haruto begins to speak with confidence.Ja: しかし、プレゼンテーションの途中で予期せぬトラブルが発生します。En: But midway through the presentation, an unexpected problem occurs.Ja: テクノロジーデモがうまく動かないのです。En: The technology demo isn't working properly.Ja: 会場はざわつき始めます。En: The room begins to stir.Ja: その時、ハルトはふと思い出します。ユキが日頃から言っていたこと、「自分の技術に自信を持って。」En: At that moment, Haruto suddenly recalls what Yuki often said, "Have confidence in your technology."Ja: ハルトはパニックを抑え、持ち前の技術知識でアドリブを始めます。En: Calming his panic, he starts to ad-lib with his innate technical knowledge.Ja: 彼の説明は、機器本来のポテンシャルを引き出し、予想以上に聴衆を惹きつけます。En: His explanation brings out the device's true potential and captivates the audience more than expected.Ja: プレゼンが終わる頃には、会場は静かに彼の話を聞き入っていました。En: By the time the presentation ends, the audience is quietly engaged in his talk.Ja: そこに、一人の経験豊富な起業家が近づいてきました。En: Then, an experienced entrepreneur approaches.Ja: その起業家は、ハルトのプロジェクトに非常に興味を持ち、メンターシップと資源の提供を申し出ます。En: This entrepreneur is highly interested in Haruto's project and offers mentorship and resources.Ja: ハルトはこの体験を通じて、自分の能力に自信を深めました。En: Through this experience, Haruto gained confidence in his abilities.Ja: ユキのクリエイティブなアイデアを取り入れることと、しっかり準備することのバランスが、成功の鍵だったのです。En: The balance between incorporating Yuki's creative ideas and thorough preparation was the key to success.Ja: 彼はこう思いました、新たな旅が始まる、と。En: He thought, a new journey begins now.Ja: この日から、ハルトの夢はリアルな未来へと一歩近づいたのです。En: From this day, Haruto's dream took a step closer to becoming a real future.Ja: スタートアップ・インキュベーターには、新しい物語が生まれ続けています。En: New stories continue to be born in the startup incubator.Ja: そして春の東京は、若い挑戦者たちを次のステージへといざないます。En: And spring in Tokyo invites young challengers to the next stage. Vocabulary Words:vibrant: 活気あふれるinnovators: イノベーターgleaming: 輝くstage: 舞台anxiety: 不安bursting: 満載unconventional: 突飛なintegrate: 組み込むad-lib: アドリブinnate: 持ち前のcaptivates: 惹きつけるentrepreneur: 起業家mentorship: メンターシップresources: 資源journey: 旅incubator: インキュベーターcutting-edge: 最先端のpresentation: プレゼンテーションconservative: 保守的なmidway: 途中unexpected: 予期せぬpotential: ポテンシャルengage: 聞き入るthorough: しっかりchallenge: 挑戦panic: パニックstruggles: 苦手conservative: 保守的なpotential: ポテンシャルspirit: 気持ち
How can you supercharge your creativity in an age when AI is reshaping everything — including how we write, edit, and market our books? What does it look like to use AI as a genuine creative partner rather than a shortcut? And could professional speaking become an income stream that complements your writing career? With James Taylor. In the intro, Audible's new royalty model; New royalty model details [ACX; Kindlepreneur]; Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives and other Introverts; Why Indie Authors Should Ignore the Market's Mood and Focus on their Mission [Self-Publishing with ALLi]; Lichfield Cathedral; This podcast is sponsored by Kobo Writing Life, which helps authors self-publish and reach readers in global markets through the Kobo eco-system. You can also subscribe to the Kobo Writing Life podcast for interviews with successful indie authors. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn James Taylor is a nonfiction author, professional speaker, podcaster, and entrepreneur who helps people unlock their creative potential. He hosts the SuperCreativity Podcast and his latest book is SuperCreativity: Augmenting Human Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. Show Notes How to define creativity and why it's becoming the most valuable skill in the age of AI The five stages of the creative process — and the stage most people skip Three types of creative purpose: play, self-expression, and legacy How James used multiple AI tools alongside human collaborators to write, edit, and market SuperCreativity Bulk book sales, industry-specific editions, and revenue models for nonfiction author-speakers Practical tips for authors who want to break into professional keynote speaking You can find James at JamesTaylor.me. Transcript of the interview with James Taylor Jo: James Taylor is a nonfiction author, professional speaker, podcaster, and entrepreneur who helps people unlock their creative potential. He hosts the SuperCreativity Podcast and his latest book is SuperCreativity: Augmenting Human Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. Welcome to the show, James. James: Well, thank you for having me as a guest. I'm looking forward to this conversation today. Jo: It's going to be really good. First up— Tell us a bit more about you and how you got into writing and publishing. James: Well, today I'm a professional keynote speaker, so I deliver about fifty to a hundred keynotes per year in twenty-five-plus countries. Primarily I speak on creativity, innovation, and artificial intelligence. Go back into my deepest, darkest history—I actually used to manage rock stars. That was my old job. I used to be in the music industry for many, many years. I worked with members of The Rolling Stones, and for our listeners in the UK, I managed bands like Deacon Blue. Then I went to the dark side. In 2010, I moved to California to work in Silicon Valley, to work in the world of tech. That got me involved in artificial intelligence. Right about 2017, I was speaking at an event in San Francisco and someone came up to me and said, “You realise you could probably speak for a living, you could do this for a living.” So I thought, well, how does that work? And he told me. Then I embarked on the career that I have today, which is primarily as a speaker, with writing now coming a bit more to the fore. Jo: Wow, I remember Deacon Blue. James: Yes. Jo: “Dignity.” That's crazy. Very, very cool backstory there, but we'll come back to the career side of things. Let's get into super creativity, because my listeners are certainly creatives. Most of the listeners will have a book either on the way or they might even have lots of books. So we all do want to be super creative. How do you define creativity, and why is it important to keep focusing on this even if we do identify that way? James: For me, creativity is about bringing new ideas to the mind. Innovation is about bringing new ideas to the world, but without creativity, there is no innovation. So creativity is really the engine of innovation. Whether that is designing new products, new services, or creating new works of art and new books. The reason that creativity is becoming more important is because of what we're seeing right now in terms of artificial intelligence. AI is going to replace a lot of the non-creative tasks that we currently do in our jobs. If you look at things like the World Economic Forum, there was recently a study with a thousand global business leaders, and work from companies like LinkedIn—they all highlight that creativity is going to be one of the foremost important soft skills for this new future. So creativity, strangely, will actually become more important, not less important, as we go ahead. That's the creativity side. Probably for many of the listeners here, they'll consider themselves to be creative. That is not the norm. As I mentioned, I speak in about twenty-five countries a year, and if I ask the audiences—primarily corporate audiences—to put their hands up if they consider themselves to be creative, only between ten to forty per cent of the audience will raise their hands. So part of my job is to show them why they are more creative than they think they are and why we're all born with this creative potential. Then moving into the super creativity side, it's really to show them how they can augment that creativity by collaborating more deeply with other people or machines—things like artificial intelligence. So SuperCreativity, the book that I've written and the speeches I give on it, is really about how we can augment our individual creativity by collaborating more deeply with other people or artificial intelligence. For me, that's been the thing I've been fascinated by for the past few years, and probably for many of our listeners who are now using AI in their writing, their researching, and their marketing of their books, they're probably getting into this space as well. I really wanted to dive into that—both the collaboration with other people and with machines and AI. Jo: In terms of the super creativity then, do you have any practices or ideas? Before we get into collaboration, many of us authors work alone—and of course we can come back to the AI stuff in a minute—but in terms of super creativity, are there ways that we can even supercharge what we do already? Then, of course there are people listening who might not feel creative. So give us a few tips on how we can potentially change our mindset or become even more creative. James: In the book I talk about what I call the eight Ps of super creativity, which are purpose, personality, practice, people, process, place, product, and persuasion. Persuasion is really the marketing piece at the end. Probably the one that could be most useful to many listeners today is the practice piece—the practice or the process side of things. For many of us, what that usually consists of is just having some type of daily creative practice. Different people do it in different ways. Many of your listeners will know the works of people like Julia Cameron—the morning pages style of having some type of daily practice. Other people do it in slightly different ways. The process bit is really interesting. I talk about this creative process that we all have, and I talk about these five stages of the creative process. The first stage, let's say if we're writing a book, is really that preparation stage. That is usually the stage where we are trying to absorb as much information as possible about the thing that we're going to be writing about. The topic, if it's nonfiction, or going to the places, visiting the scenes that we're going to set certain things within for the book. So that preparation stage is really about absorbing as much information as possible from the outside. It's not going to look very creative. We're just absorbing at that stage. Now the mistake that a lot of people tend to make is they immediately try to jump from that preparation stage to looking to generate ideas. But what all the studies show us is we should spend a little bit of time in what we call the incubation stage. This is where it's often very useful if we've done some research, that we put things to one side for a little while, maybe a few weeks, move on to another project, think about something completely different. Your brain will continue to work in the background. Your unconscious brain will work on that content you've been absorbing. Then what often happens as a result of that is we come to this third stage, which is that insight stage—that aha moment. That happens for various different reasons and you can seed that in slightly different ways so you're more likely to get inspiration in your day-to-day work. Then as we know—as you are a writer of many, many books—many people think, “Well, that's it. I've done it. The idea for that book or that chapter has come to me.” That is really just the first five per cent of the process. The next stage is where we look at all the different ideas we have and decide which ones we want to pursue, which ones are going to make the grade. This is what we call the evaluation stage. Once we've done that, we move to that final stage, which is the elaboration stage. If it's a startup, this is when you're building your minimum viable product. As a writer, this is where you're actually doing the work, putting those words out onto the page. It's a very iterative process, so it's not necessarily linear. You'll go back and forth. Even as you're getting input from readers and audiences in that last stage, that is then giving you the material to move back to the preparation stage and think, “Oh, I wonder if this next book in this series, maybe I go in a slightly different direction with this character.” So each of those different stages, you can do different things to increase your levels of creativity. Jo: I love all of that, but can we go back to purpose? Because you mentioned that as one of the Ps and I think this is something that a lot of us need. As we are recording this in April 2026, the world is an interesting place. There are lots of things going on that have people worried. Well, we are not talking about politics, but I think one of the things that people struggle with is, what's the point in writing this story, for example, or what's the point in trying to get my words out there when things are difficult? I feel like coming back to purpose is perhaps the thing that helps people even take it into the process as you were talking about. And then of course, just from a practical angle— Is purpose about making money or reaching people? So maybe you could talk about the purpose side of things. James: Yes. So I talk about three different purposes, and it's not that there's just one that predominates, but usually there's one that maybe predominates on different projects. The first one is creativity as play. It's what we're basically, as humans, hardwired to do—this instinctive joy that we get just for creating for its own sake. There's nothing that really sits beyond that. We just have fun. We find pleasure in creating something. That could be a musician creating a piece of music, a sculptor creating a sculpture, an entrepreneur creating a new business or product or service. There's just this sense of play. One of the things I talk about in the book is this idea of being childlike, not childish. If you look at children, you see this very instinctively. If you see a three-year-old or a five-year-old, you give them some crayons and they will just naturally create. That's part of who they are and it's pretty abstract. Then what happens is they go to school and they're taught useful conventions—”this is how you should do it.” You even see their work start to change. You start to see them move from abstract paintings to more formal structures. Then you get your peer group, then you go to college or university and the world of work, and you're taught all these useful conventions. That's fine, but as adults, it is our responsibility to become what we call post-conventional, where we see these conventions as a useful signpost but we're willing to challenge them. We're willing to have a playfulness in what we do. So the first one is just this hardwired thing—creativity as play. The second one, and this is maybe for a lot of your listeners the reason that they are writers, is self-expression. It's a way of placing something out into the world. I was actually just in France recently, and I was talking to a young visual artist, a painter from Hungary, and she had to go up and give a speech. She really hated doing it. She was having to talk about her work and she was really uncomfortable. I could see the discomfort and my heart went out for her, because that is not the way she primarily expresses herself. She expresses herself through her art form, which is painting. For many of us, we might struggle to get on a stage, but we can express ourselves in the written word. We have something we want to say, a position we want to have, and we want to express that and get that out into the world. The final one is just this idea of legacy. That is not going to be for everyone. I can tell you, for me personally, legacy is not the reason that I write and do a lot of the stuff that I do. Maybe that changes—maybe as we get a bit older, we want to leave a body of work. So those are the three main purposes that we tend to see. Then you mentioned the financial side of what we do as well. This starts to come into that self-expression, because we need to be able to get people to buy our books or download our books and read our books in order to give us the ability to write new works and create new things. The financial side is an important component of it, but it is not the only one. I think there's a great question any writer should ask themselves. One of the first questions that I asked myself as a relatively new nonfiction writer is: why am I writing this book? What is the purpose of this book? For me, primarily it is a form of self-expression, and then you have to go, “Well, that's fine, but I also need it to have some type of financial basis for it.” It doesn't need to be the main driver of my income, but I need to have some type of revenue model. I'm happy to talk about revenue models, because probably the type of revenue model that I have as a writer is going to be different from other listeners. I tend to focus more on bulk selling of books rather than individual selling of books. Jo: Yes, I definitely want to come back to revenue models and business, but a few other things first. I want to circle back to collaboration, because I've certainly co-written with some humans, and I know a lot of listeners either have co-written or collaborated with other humans—and some of it works and some of it doesn't. You have some great information on human-plus-human creativity and collaboration. So maybe you could give us some tips on how we can be more effective collaborators with other humans. James: So there's a whole section about this idea of creative pairs. Often if you look at great creative work or innovative companies, very often when you strip it all back, you'll find at the core lots and lots of creative pairings. That is usually two different but complementary personalities who are willing to develop and challenge and improve each other's ideas. We think of Jobs and Wozniak in the world of business, or Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. For authors, often that relationship is the work with their editor. There was a documentary I saw—I think it was a New Yorker documentary that came out a while ago—talking with a writer of history books about his relationship with his editor. It was a really beautiful relationship. These were two very different personalities, but what worked was the fact that they were different. A core component of having these creative pairings is a sense of trust—or what some people today would call psychological safety—that you are willing to challenge someone's ideas, but in a space of trust. The Germans have a great phrase for it. In English it translates as “someone to steal horses with,” which I love. Hopefully our listeners have that person where you can go to them and say, “I had this idea for a book or a chapter or a character,” and that person is a “yes, and.” Like, “Yes, and have you thought about doing it this way?” or “What would happen if you did this?” They stress test your ideas. They make your ideas better. For many of us, maybe it's our husbands or wives, our partners. Some of us are lucky enough to have editors. When I started rewriting this latest book, I actually had someone like that—a human, not an AI—that I worked with, especially on taking all these random thoughts and ideas I've been expressing in keynotes and putting them into more of a book form. The format and the structures that we use for telling stories in a speech are quite different from the structure that we would use for a nonfiction book. I didn't have as much experience there, so I wanted someone who could say, “Have you thought about structuring it this way?” or “This is a great story arc you might want to think about.” So I don't know, for you, who is your creative pairing? Who is your “someone to steal horses with”? Jo: Well, it's funny. I really think since the arrival of Claude Opus 4.6, it is absolutely Claude. James: Yes, yes. Jo: All the way. I mean, so we could come onto that next in terms of how AI has changed, because I do still work with a professional editor for both fiction and nonfiction, but it is very much in the “make my finished work better” stage. It is not in the exploratory phase. I find particularly the latest reasoning models to just be fantastic at this. And my Claude is not sycophantic. The Opus 4.6—I'm sure you've been using it too—it just doesn't behave in the way that a lot of people think these AIs did. They did behave like that, and now it's changed. So let's talk about that. What are your thoughts on collaborating more effectively with AI tools, especially as they become more and more powerful? As we record this, Claude Mythos has not come out, but it's certainly rumoured to arrive. I'm pretty excited. James: So because I've been doing this AI thing for a little while, it's given me the ability to experiment with things—the early versions of what many people are using today. I'll give you an example. Even before I started writing the book, I decided to write a book proposal. Even though I could pretty much sense I wanted to independently publish this book through my own publishing company, I thought it's a good practice to put it down into a proposal form, even though I don't go to a traditional publisher or a hybrid publisher. One of the things I did within that was get a sense of who my ideal readers are. I used a very early version—this was a few years ago—of an IBM AI tool, creating what we call a psychometric map of my ideal reader. This basically tells me, over about seventy-two different factors, how this person thinks, how they feel, what their value system is, very broadly for my ideal reader. I pulled in different sources. I knew the kind of magazines and books they were reading and what their general worldview was. So I created this—going one step beyond just creating your ideal reader to really understanding their psychometrics. I do this in my keynotes too. Before I ever give a keynote or an important pitch or a presentation, I use AI to analyse the psychometrics of the audience I'm going to be speaking to. This might tell me, for example, this audience values humour a little bit more, or this audience values a bit more practicality so they want actionable next steps, or this audience is going to be a little bit authority-challenging so they're going to push back. So even in those very early stages, just starting to think about the book—who was I writing this book for, what was the purpose of the book—I was using AI to understand the psychometrics of my absolutely perfect, ideal reader. I gave her a name. It was a female reader. There was someone similar to her that I already knew. Probably for some of your listeners, they do this instinctively anyway. They maybe have a person or a few different people they think of in their head. Then from that stage, because I've been delivering lots and lots of keynotes—and this may be an important distinction in the way that I have decided to write books as opposed to how other people write books—my family were all jazz musicians. The difference between a rock musician or a pop musician and a jazz musician is this: a rock or pop musician will go into the studio, create this opus, this work, and then tour that for the next two years. A jazz musician, on the other hand, goes out and performs the songs and the things from the album that they're eventually going to create hundreds of times, thousands of times, to find out what works with audiences, and then they go into the studio and record the stuff that works best. So I created a book more like a jazz musician. I'd delivered keynote versions of the book hundreds of times before I ever decided to actually write the book. So it had been stress-tested with real people to a certain extent. Then, getting into it, I thought—well, what works as a keynote is not necessarily going to work as a structure for a book. So what I did was start using ChatGPT models at that point to think about the structural edit of the book. What was the structure going to be? What was great is you can basically feed it every single keynote you've given over the years, all the notes, everything you've done, and it could start to give me something to riff with and really get into thinking about how I was going to create this. I was using it a little like that creative pairing we spoke about earlier. Then once I'd done that—so I've now got an idea of a structural edit essentially—I then go back and speak to some humans about it. “What do you think about this?” “What do you think about that?” And try some things out over dinner conversations. “I'm thinking about doing this—what do you think?” Then once I did that, I just did the thing that I really didn't want to do, but I guess you absolutely have to do: sit in a seat for multiple weeks and just get that crappy first draft done. That was just me writing, from my voice, in my way of doing things. Every so often I would use an AI to research a particular thing, but I didn't want to slow down the pace too much. I was focused on getting that word count done. Once I had the first draft, I then brought the AI back in. In this case, I was still using OpenAI at this stage, to act more like an editor. To tell me what was weak about the book. At this point I was starting to give it the overall framing. What was weak, what chapters needed to be improved. I then went back, started reworking each of the chapters, and worked chapter by chapter using that AI as a sparring partner. But once again, the AI is not really writing my words for me. It's maybe saying, “This part could be said better. You might want to think about doing it this way,” or “You are missing a really powerful case study or example here,” or at the very end of each chapter, I have actionable next steps, and “You're missing some things here.” So I've gone through that entire process of writing, and now I'm essentially at the second draft. At this point, what I'm doing is using another AI tool—Claude, in this case—to have a different perspective on it. I gave it the work. I mentioned a couple of editors that I really respect and different writers I respect and said, “I'm going to create a virtual beta readers group. Give me feedback on this now.” For someone that's listening to this, and we're recording this in April 2026, here's some good news for you. There are now a bunch of tools out there that use AI swarms, as we call them. You can basically feed it your book and it will create synthetic readers—thousands and thousands of synthetic readers that read your kind of style of book—and it will then give you feedback from these synthetic readers. Essentially, I was just doing an early version of that. So I got the feedback from the synthetic readers, the AI readers, and then reworked a little bit. Some of the stuff I just decided not to do because it didn't align with what I was trying to say in the book. Then the next stage was I had a beta reader group of about thirty human beta readers—my ideal readers. I sent the book to them, they gave me feedback. I then used AI to give me an overview report of all their feedback, and then I was able to go back into reworking the book. That's still really just draft three of the book, not the final book at this stage. But just to give everyone a sense of opening up the process: you could see how the human and machine were working together. Jo: Yes, I love that. I also often say to people who are speakers first that you can, if you have recordings of your talks or if you use your slide decks to record them as MP3s and then just use that transcript as the basis of a draft. Obviously it's not the book or a chapter, but it can actually preserve your voice—your speaking voice—which I think can be really effective for speakers. I like your multi-step process there. And then of course, if you have audience avatars in AI, that can help you design your book marketing. So take this into book marketing and how you're doing that. James: So I still decided to go old school with a human editor—a book editor that someone had recommended to me. I used that human book editor just to go through the book. At that point we're talking about style, some stylistic things that we wanted to do, and they can pick up other things as well. So I've got that book, and then I'm obviously starting to use AI to understand what tags, what kind of copy do I want to have in terms of putting it onto Amazon, putting it onto IngramSpark, and all these other platforms I want to put it out into. I'm using Claude here in particular—and with Claude, you have something called Cowork. It wasn't quite fully happening at that point, but there were early versions of it and Claude Code—to almost start working with and creating a virtual marketing team. I give it the book and then they could start thinking about: what is the marketing strategy for this book? What does the campaign look like? What are the things that we need to do? That was then starting to break it down. We're now three months out or so before the book is due to get released, and I'm starting to deploy that particular campaign. So for example, I'm on a podcast right now, and we try different versions. We have a human going out and reaching out to potential shows for me to be a guest on, but I also have an agent. There's also one going out and finding and researching podcasts and reaching out to those podcast hosts to have me as a potential guest. So they're doing some of the tactical work there at the same time. One mistake I made—and I don't know if you've experienced this as well—if I was to go back, one thing I would do differently is this: I decided to record the audiobook version after the physical book was already committed and ready to go out. Jo: Mm-hmm. James: And I noticed so many small errors or things I would change after having spent two days in a studio recording the voice for the entire book—changes I would have made. This is something other people did ask me: why are you not using ElevenLabs or an AI clone of your voice to read the script? There are some things I feel quite personal about, and my voice is one of those things. As a professional keynote speaker, I decided I wanted to keep that and have it in there. So it's going to be different for everyone which things they decide to offload to AI, which things they decide to give to a human member of their team, and what they decide to keep to themselves. Jo: Yes, I mean, I human-record my nonfiction, but I have an AI voice clone with ElevenLabs for my fiction now. But obviously, for people listening, you can't put an ElevenLabs voice-cloned audiobook on Audible, and a lot of your sales will be on Audible, especially for a book like this. So I think that's also important. I agree with you on doing the audio edit. There's always things you want to change. But as you mentioned, you're self-publishing this, so you can just go in and change your files. James: Yes, and that was the other reason, and this was part of the marketing—now we're moving into the marketing and the business model behind the book. For me, the book doesn't have to be a financial driver in its own sense. The way that I sell books, and usually people like myself—professional speakers—is we bulk sell books to our clients. Let's say I'm speaking at four different events this month. Each has about a thousand people at them. Those organisers will buy, say, a thousand copies of the book. So at the end of that month, you might have sold four thousand copies—not individual copies. Anything that sells on Amazon or in other places is almost like a positioning piece. Obviously you want people to buy the book and learn things from the book, but in terms of the distribution model, it's slightly different because I'm primarily selling through bulk sales. Now, here's a little twist you can do on this, and this is a decision I made even before we released this version of the book. I speak to lots of different industries. There was a speaker and author—I've forgotten his name now, I think he was from Florida—and what he decided to do was to write a slightly different version of his main book every year, but for a different industry. So what this allows him to do is, let's say in my case, I'm doing a version of the SuperCreativity book just for legal professionals because I speak to a lot of law firms and legal groups. I've already started working on a version of the book which is a little bit more attuned to that audience. As a speaker, it allows me to go to all these law firms and legal associations and bar associations and say, “Hey, I've just written the book on creativity and artificial intelligence for the legal industry.” That makes you a very bookable proposition for a client. And then obviously you can sell books from that as well. And that's before we get into the foreign language versions. That's just a model that happens to work pretty well for my part of the industry, but obviously it's going to be very different for other types of authors. Jo: No, I think that's great. For nonfiction authors, as you say, there are different revenue models. Your income, I guess, would be what, eighty, ninety per cent speaking revenue? Or do you have other things as well? James: Yes, primarily it's the keynote speaking, and anything that comes from the back of that. Sometimes it's boardroom advisory work that I do as well. But primarily it's the speaking side. So really the book is just the simplest form to get my ideas out and the most affordable form. Jo: Mm-hmm. James: Because the other thing is, you want as many people getting your ideas as possible, and there is no better, more affordable way of getting someone's ideas out there than in the form of a book. I think it's just the most unbelievable transmitter of knowledge—a book. That's why I love to write the book as well. A lot of my friends say, “Listen, books are old hat. You don't need to do a book any more. You can do these other things, other forms, online courses.” I've done lots of online courses in the past and membership sites and all those things, but there's just something that is great about a book—to be able to summarise your ideas at a particular point in time. It's also a great transmitter of value to other people. And it is affordable. Any book, someone can download a book on Audible or wherever they want—that's just an affordable way of absorbing that content. Jo: Yes. Well, of course we are all fans of books here. I do speak—I don't tend to do keynote speaking. I do more content speaking at conferences. For people listening, keynote speaking is where you tend to get the higher revenue. So if people listening have books already—let's say they have nonfiction books or even fiction books that could be turned somehow into different topics—if people want to get booked for speaking gigs, preferably ones that pay— How would you recommend authors think about moving into speaking if that's something they want to do? James: So obviously it's much easier for nonfiction authors to do that. I mean, I'll give you an example. I was speaking at an event last week in New York for L'Oréal, the hair care and cosmetics company. They had six different speakers. One of them was a speaker on macroeconomics and geopolitics. Another was an expert on communications. Another was an expert on AI. Another was an expert on storytelling. So you have to think: does my topic have value for that type of audience—that corporate audience? An easy way of finding that is if you just go onto any of the speaker bureau websites, type in “speaker bureaus,” look for the speaker bureaus, and then type in your topic area—emotional intelligence or whatever the topic area is—and look at the other speakers. See if there is obviously a number of speakers talking on this area. Importantly, look at how busy they are and look at their fee levels as well. I did an online summit a few years ago called the International Speakers Summit, where I interviewed a hundred and fifty of the world's best professional keynote speakers. I interviewed Sally Hogshead, who's an author and a speaker, and she said to me, “James, you're going out speaking about creativity, but if you just twisted it a little bit and spoke more in terms of innovation rather than creativity, you would earn an extra five thousand dollars per keynote.” So creativity and innovation—an extra five thousand dollars. That's just a simple thing that, as you get to understand the industry, you learn. Then once you do that, it's like any business—you have to treat it like a business, obviously. What makes someone a great storyteller on stages is not the same as what makes a great storyteller on the written word. So depending on where you're at, you might need certain training and skills development. If you are listening to this from America, there are things like the National Speakers Association, the NSA. If you're living in the UK, the Professional Speakers Association. These are great ways just to develop your skill set and learn from other professional speakers. Here's the good news, I didn't know anything about professional speaking until 2017–18, and it was only from having a conversation with someone who said, “Listen, you have some original thoughts. You can get paid to speak about this on stage.” Then I spent the next year really researching and understanding and looking at how to do it and creating a minimum viable product—a speech—that was a very short period of time, a year. Most of the listeners here have gone through that process of writing a book, which takes many, many months. So you have the stamina to do this type of work. You just need to find out where you fit. I thought I was going to be a speaker in marketing. I thought that was going to be my thing. And it turns out that's not what the market wanted from me. They wanted me to talk about creativity and artificial intelligence. So you have to listen to the market, like you have to listen to your readers. Jo: Yes, I think that's really interesting. I was also a member of the PSA here, and I learned in Australia with the NSAA as it was. James: Yes. Jo: And that thing about who you speak to—I mainly speak to author conferences, who, I just want to be frank, don't pay very well, if at all. So exactly what you said there— If you want to be a highly paid speaker, you have to pick the audience who's going to pay, as well as a topic that works with them. It is a very different thing to writing a book, I think. James: It is a different model. This is what was interesting when I interviewed those hundred and fifty professional speakers—the thing that came back loud and clear is there is a model to suit everyone. Jo: Mm. James: So the model that works for me—getting paid high fees to go and travel around the world, speaking on stages to primarily corporate audiences—that is not the only model. There is another model, which is called the “sell from the stage” model, where you maybe don't get paid anything to go and speak on the stage, or very little, but what you're doing is you're selling your consulting, your online course, your books, your other products from the back of the stage. That's another model as well. I have friends who have young families and they are writers and they don't want to schlep on planes like I do. I know one speaker in particular who never leaves his own city. He is a very successful professional speaker. He happens to live in Orlando, Florida, which is one of the busiest cities for conferences. So literally, he's home with his kids every night. He gets to do all this cool stuff he wants. He never has to step on a plane if he doesn't want to. That just shows you the range. I remember I once interviewed a person whose title was a Buddhist monk, French speaker, and author. He figured out he could live very affordably by living in Thailand. So he lives in Thailand for part of the year and he's very into meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and writing. He figured out he only had to give two keynotes per year to pay for his entire lifestyle. That was it. So that gives him a lot of freedom. He does those two corporate keynotes a year and for the rest of the year he's doing his yoga, his meditation, his writing, and surfboarding, whatever he's into as well. So you can see there's a whole range of different ways you can design that life. Jo: Yes, we talk a lot about definition of success and it's great to hear those different examples. So before we finish up, I just want to come back to your journey into the writing side, into books and self-publishing. We all understand, me and the listeners, how hard it is to write a book and also to market a book, but we've got the bug. So we wonder: how much have you got the bug? Do you plan on doing more writing, more books, or do you still want to lean more heavily into speaking? James: Primarily the income for me will still come from speaking. I remember listening to Elizabeth Gilbert once when she talked about her writing. She said she always wanted to have other things, so she never had to push onto her writing that it had to be the income stream for her. If it was successful, great, that's fantastic. So I have a little bit of a similar view to that. In terms of my own writing, I've got about five different nonfiction book ideas I'm now looking at. Some of them relate to speeches that I already do. Some don't. I'm looking at different versions of the SuperCreativity book, so there'll be other versions coming out—different industries, different languages. That gives you a few years of work. The other side that I want to develop is the fiction writing side. I'm already starting to work on a fiction book at the moment—a little bit like this idea of one for them, one for me. Jo: Mm-hmm. James: So one for them is for the corporate audience, that world that I live in, and the other one is for me, for my own creativity. My hope—and I don't know, maybe we need to speak in a year's time when I've written and published it—is that by doing the fiction side, it will make me a better storyteller on stages as well for my corporate audience. It will help me understand story arcs, slightly different ways of expressing stories, building emotion, building the anti-hero characters within a book, for example. So I'm hoping that they both feed off each other. But we will see. Jo: Yes, we will. All the best with that. So where can people find you and your books and everything you do online? James: The easiest place to go is JamesTaylor.me, and you can find the book, which is called SuperCreativity, there. Or just go to wherever you buy your books—your local independent bookstore—and get a copy of SuperCreativity. The audiobook may already be out by the time you're listening to this as well. If you want to learn a little bit more, we also have a podcast called the SuperCreativity Podcast, where I interview lots of wonderful guests talking about this area of super creativity. Jo: Well, thanks so much for your time, James. That was brilliant. James: Thank you, Joanna. Thanks for having me as a guest on the show.The post SuperCreativity And KeyNote Speaking With A Non-Fiction Book With James Taylor first appeared on The Creative Penn.
I love when I stumble across someone I know doing something big—and that's exactly what happened with today's guest.I spotted one of our Thought Leader Academy grads Kim Foster on YouTube…with a video that had over 1.5 million views. Naturally, I wanted to know how she did it!In this episode, Kim and I dig into what it really takes to grow a YouTube channel that drives visibility, trust, and clients.She shares how consistency, smart content strategy, and paying attention to your audience can completely change the trajectory of your brand.We also talk about her recent TEDx talk, her upcoming book, and why identity, not willpower, is the real key to transformation.If you've been thinking about YouTube, speaking, or stepping more fully into your thought leadership, this conversation will give you a lot to think about.About Our Guest: Dr. Kim Foster is an MD-turned–reinvention expert, author, and TEDx speaker who helps people change their lives by changing who they believe themselves to be. After 20 years practicing medicine, Kim left her career to build a global platform teaching the science of identity transformation. Her work blends behavioral psychology, personal development, and wellness, and she develops digital education programs that help people redesign their inner blueprint and build lives that actually reflect the person they're becoming. Her thriving YouTube channel has grown to more than 250,000 subscribers and her forthcoming book, Redesigning You (June 2026), explores how to shift the beliefs and stories that shape behavior and destiny. Kim's mission is to empower people to reinvent themselves at any age and step into who they were meant to become.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/473/ Kim's website: https://drkimfoster.com/ Kim's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KimFosterMD Kim's book: https://drkimfoster.com/book 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/carolcoxKim Foster (guest) = https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkimfoster/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 357: Create Real Change by Shifting Your Identity to Who You Want to Be with Kim Foster
We catch up on a chaotic launch week, a new company announcement, and the growing noise around AI and tech culture before switching gears into what actually makes a presentation land. We share the practical public speaking and presentation skills we use to keep audiences engaged, stay calm under pressure, and communicate with clarity without sounding rehearsed. • a fast check-in on work chaos, health, and getting back on the mic • Michael's company launch and the promise of agentic AI for reclaiming time • Palantir's manifesto and why AI fear-mongering is spreading • why knowing your audience and goal beats memorizing a script • setting expectations up front so the room does not derail you • breathing, intentional movement, and using energy the right way • storytelling frameworks like the Amazon model, hero's journey, and what so what now what • simple slide design, why never to present from Excel, and how to end strong • Q&A tactics that lead to better questions and better answers If you're interested in supporting the show, you can do so by clicking on the link. It is a link tree now in every place. If you can't do any of those things, the least you can do is share this episode with your friends.Support the showClick/Tap HERE for everything Corporate StrategyElevator Music by Julian Avila Promoted by MrSnoozeDon't forget ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ it helps!
So i got the chance to sit down and chat with Chris, a friend, somm, and business owner. Lets just say epicness. EnjoyBadmotivatorbarrels.com/shop/?aff=3https://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Patreon.com/offtopicwhiskeyOverviewHistory and Practical Knowledge of the primary whisky regions from around the world including the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and Japan (written test requiring 75% passing grade)Public Speaking and StorytellingPalate competency training and deductive tastingThe World of WhiskyA discussion of whiskies made across the world. You will hear the history, learn the stories, and taste the end results. When you walk away, you will be able to hold a knowledgeable discussion with any whisky drinker anywhere in the world.The Art of Public SpeakingWe will teach you the fine art of getting and holding attention, storytelling, and creating a confident presentation of the deep, broad knowledge you hold in your head. Passing on the passion and romance of whisky is all about stories.Marketing of Upscale ProductsHow do you sell upscale products or services, especially in our changing economy? The same way successful people always have: with language that has a sense of glamor, mystery, and magic; with messaging that doesn't just tell people “what,” or “how,” but strongly communicates “why.” We will take you through this section focused on writing and communicating the glamor of whisky.Deductive TastingWe introduce you to the science and art of deductive tasting. You will use these fundamentals to begin building a catalog of whisky scents, tastes, and historical palate references.Course Title: World of Whisky Level OneCourse Duration: 2 daysGrading Policy:– Written Test on Whisky history, production, and styles: 70% passing grade required minimum on written test.– Class Participation: evaluated by instructors– Deductive Tasting Assignments: evaluated by instructorsCourse Description:This course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of whisky, its history, production methods, and the art of communicating its nuances effectively. Students will explore the primary whisky regions from around the world, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, the United States, and Japan. The course will also cover public speaking and storytelling, marketing of upscale products, and deductive tasting as well as palate competency training.Course Objectives:– Develop a deep knowledge of the history and practical knowledge of whisky regions worldwide as well as methods of production in all major whisky regions– Enhance public speaking and storytelling skills to effectively communicate whisky-related information.– Develop palate competency and deductive tasting abilities.– Understand the marketing strategies and techniques used to promote upscale whisky products.– Build a catalog of whisky scents, tastes, and historical palate references.– Understand the difference between knowledge and connection, between gurus and shepherds.
Fluent Fiction - Hindi: Arav's Big Day: From Silent Observer to Marine Mentor Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hi/episode/2026-05-15-07-38-19-hi Story Transcript:Hi: जीवन में कभी-कभी ऐसे मौके आते हैं जब हमें खुद को साबित करना होता है।En: In life, there are times when we have to prove ourselves.Hi: यही सोचते हुए, आरव ने अपने मन में एक दृढ़ संकल्प लिया था।En: With this in mind, Arav made a firm resolution.Hi: स्कूल की फाइनल फील्ड ट्रिप का दिन था और शिक्षक उन्हें एक्वेरियम में ले जा रहे थे।En: It was the day of the final school field trip, and the teacher was taking them to the aquarium.Hi: आरव के दिल में समुद्री जीवों के प्रति खास लगाव था।En: Arav had a special fondness for marine creatures.Hi: वह सपने देखता था कि एक दिन वह एक सफल समुद्र वैज्ञानिक बनेगा।En: He dreamt of becoming a successful marine scientist one day.Hi: बस एक्वेरियम के दरवाजे पर रुकी।En: The bus stopped at the aquarium's entrance.Hi: बच्चों की चहल-पहल से माहौल गूंज उठा।En: The atmosphere buzzed with the chatter of children.Hi: एक्वेरियम का विशाल दरवाज़ा खुला और सभी बच्चे अंदर दाखिल हुए।En: The aquarium's huge door opened, and all the children entered inside.Hi: अंदर का दृश्य मंत्रमुग्ध करने वाला था।En: The sight inside was mesmerizing.Hi: बड़े-बड़े टैंक, जिनमें रंग-बिरंगी मछलियाँ, कोरल रिफ, और नाचते हुए समुद्री कछुए तैर रहे थे।En: Large tanks with colorful fish, coral reefs, and swimming sea turtles enchanted everyone.Hi: आरव ने हिम्मत जुटाई और तय किया कि वह आज अपने सहपाठियों के सामने बोलेगा।En: Arav gathered courage and decided that he would speak in front of his classmates today.Hi: उसने एक किताब में क्लाउनफिश के बारे में पढ़ा था कि कैसे वे अपने निवास स्थान को स्वच्छ रखते हैं और समुद्री एनिमोनी के बीच में रहते हैं।En: He had read in a book about clownfish, about how they keep their habitat clean and live among sea anemones.Hi: इस जानकारी ने उसे मुग्ध कर दिया और वह इसे साझा करने का मौका देख रहा था।En: This information fascinated him, and he was looking for the opportunity to share it.Hi: थोड़ी देर बाद सभी बच्चे कोरल रिफ़ टैंक के पास इकट्ठा हो गए।En: A little while later, all the children gathered near the coral reef tank.Hi: आरव ने गहरी सांस ली।En: Arav took a deep breath.Hi: यह उसका मौका था।En: This was his chance.Hi: उसने आगे बढ़कर बोला, "आप लोग जानते हैं, क्लाउनफिश अपनी जगह को सुरक्षित रखने के लिए समुद्री एनिमोनी के साथ रहते हैं।En: He stepped forward and said, "Did you know that clownfish live with sea anemones to keep their place safe?Hi: इससे दोनों का फायदेमंद संबंध बनता है।En: This creates a beneficial relationship for both."Hi: " आरव के यह कहते ही सभी की नजरें उसकी तरफ थीं।En: As Arav said this, all eyes were on him.Hi: मीरा और रोहन ने उसकी बातों में दिलचस्पी दिखाई।En: Meera and Rohan showed interest in what he was saying.Hi: मीरा ने पूछा, "सच में!En: Meera asked, "Really!Hi: क्या तुम और भी जानकारी शेयर कर सकते हो?En: Can you share more information?"Hi: " आरव की हिम्मत बढ़ी।En: Arav's courage increased.Hi: उसने मुस्कुराते हुए उनकी जिज्ञासाओं का जवाब दिया।En: He smiled and answered their curiosities.Hi: पहली बार आरव ने महसूस किया कि उसके ज्ञान की सराहना हो रही थी।En: For the first time, Arav felt that his knowledge was being appreciated.Hi: ट्रिप के आखिर में, आरव के चेहरे पर आत्मविश्वास की चमक थी।En: By the end of the trip, Arav had a glow of confidence on his face.Hi: उसे अपने सहपाठियों से सकारात्मक प्रतिक्रिया मिली थी।En: He received positive feedback from his classmates.Hi: उसने सीखा कि उसकी रुचियां भी इसे साझा करने के लायक थीं।En: He learned that his interests were worth sharing.Hi: अब उसे अपने सपने को पूरा करने का विश्वास भी था।En: Now he also had the confidence to fulfill his dream.Hi: स्प्रिंग का वह दिन आरव के लिए एक नई शुरुआत बन गया था, जहां उसने डर पर जीत हासिल की और कई दिलों को छुए बिना ही रास्ते में नए दोस्त बनाए।En: That spring day became a new beginning for Arav, where he conquered his fears and made new friends along the way without even realizing it. Vocabulary Words:prove: साबितresolution: संकल्पfondness: लगावmarine: समुद्रीentrance: दरवाजेatmosphere: माहौलmesmerizing: मंत्रमुग्ध करने वालाcoral reefs: कोरल रिफenchanted: मुग्धcourage: हिम्मतopportunity: मौकाhabitat: निवास स्थानbeneficial: फायदेमंदrelationship: संबंधappreciated: सराहनाconfidences: आत्मविश्वासfeedback: प्रतिक्रियाglow: चमकfulfill: पूराdream: सपनाbeginning: शुरुआतconquered: जीत हासिल कीcreatures: जीवोंscientist: वैज्ञानिकchatter: चहल-पहलturtles: कछुएgathered: इकट्ठाcuriosities: जिज्ञासाओंinterests: रुचियांfears: डर
"A speaker with 200 followers and 30 conversations a month is going to out-earn a creator with tens of thousands of followers and zero conversations. Every single time."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this solo episode, host Dan Irvin calls out one of the most common — and costly — mistakes he sees on speaker calls every week: mistaking a content habit for a speaking business.Dan gets on the phone with speakers who have thousands of followers and zero paid gigs. He also gets on calls with speakers who have 200 followers and a packed calendar. The difference isn't the algorithm. It isn't the brand colors, the bio, or the reel that almost went viral. It's one thing: conversations. In this episode, he breaks down exactly why followers don't equal bookings, what event planners actually care about, and what you can do this week — not next month, not when your website is done — to stop building an audience and start building a pipeline.You'll learn:The content cycle that feels like progress but isn't — and how to recognize if you're stuck in itWhy content builds awareness but conversations build a business (and why those are not the same thing)The real reason speakers hide behind posting instead of reaching out (hint: it's not strategy)What event planners actually check when they're considering booking you — and what they absolutely don't checkWhy "I don't have a big enough platform yet" is a story, not a reasonDan's "tab game" — the 10-tab outreach habit he used to build his speaking business from scratchHow one speaker prioritized outreach over posting and booked three paid gigs in a few monthsWhat a good outreach message actually looks like: short, specific, and ending with a questionWhy the discomfort of sending that email is exactly the point — and why most speakers won't do itThe assignment Dan is giving you this week: 10 orgs, 5 contacts, send the messagesAnd much, much more!"Stop building an audience. Start building a pipeline."----Not sure who to reach out to or what to say? That's exactly what a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment is for. Grab a time at thespeakerlab.com/SBA — Dan and the team will help you get clear on your audience, pipeline, and next steps. No pitch, just a real conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Tiger Sisters share the keys to collaborative communication.Good marketing communication doesn't just go one way. As the Tiger Sisters know, building a brand is about bringing your audience into the conversation.Cherie and Jean Luo are sisters, tech and finance experts, and co-hosts of the Tiger Sisters Podcast, a show about money, power, and love. Their approach to content creation mirrors how they think about communication: know your audience, stay curious, and embrace feedback. “We often think about our community as the co-producers of our episodes,” Cherie says. “Each episode we put out is like a mini product. Once we put it out, we can get feedback on whether or not people are resonating.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, the Tiger Sisters join host Matt Abrahams, sharing how they've built a thriving brand through collaboration — with each other and with their audience. From simplifying complex topics to crafting messages that resonate, the Luo's insights show why the best communication is about healthy back and forth.Episode Reference Links:Jean LuoCherie Brooke LuoTiger Sisters PodcastConnect: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 (02:34) - The Tiger Sisters Mission (04:10) - Going Viral on TikTok (06:00) - Explaining Complex Topics (07:56) - Learning from the Audience (10:05) - Working as Sisters & Co-Founders (13:05) - Reinventing Careers (14:31) - Family Expectations (16:20) - Personal Branding (18:57) - Teaching Through Storytelling (21:02) - The Final Three Questions (26:23) - 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.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
Send Dr. Li a text here. Please leave your email address if you would like a reply, thanks.In this episode, Dr. Christine Li welcomes Christine Sofiane, a licensed speech pathologist, vocal health and performance coach, and trained opera singer. Discover practical tools, science-based strategies, and mindset shifts to overcome vocal fatigue, boost your speaking confidence, and harness the true power of your voice in any professional or personal setting.Timestamps00:02:12 Dr. Christine Li welcomes Christine Sofiane00:04:09 Combining singing, teaching, and voice science00:05:02 Career timeline00:05:38 Challenges of operatic singing00:07:06 Common voice issues in non-singers00:08:47 Confidence and voice connection00:09:59 Science vs. psychology of voice use00:11:03 Addressing psychological barriers00:12:13 How voice science changed Christine Sofiane's singing00:13:33 Common vocal pitfalls00:15:10 Causes and solutions for vocal fatigue00:16:24 Benefits of vocal coaching and not delaying00:17:50 Women's voice expectations00:19:04 What an effortless voice feels like00:20:35 Why voice is often overlooked00:22:26 Episode closingTo get the free download that accompanies this episode, go to: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/vocalhealthTo sign up for the Waitlist for the Simply Productive Program, go to https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/SPFor more information on the Make Time for Success podcast, visit: https://www.maketimeforsuccesspodcast.comGain Access to Dr. Christine Li's Free Resource Library -- 12 downloadable tools and templates to help you bypass the impulse to procrastinate: https://procrastinationcoach.mykajabi.com/freelibraryTo work with Dr. Li on a weekly basis in her coaching and accountability program, register for The Success Lab here: https://www.procrastinationcoach.com/lab Connect with Us!Dr. Christine LiWebsite: https://www.procrastinationcoach.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procrastinationcoachInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/procrastinationcoach/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@procrastinationcoachThe Success Lab: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/lab Simply Productive: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/SPChristine Sofiane KatzenmaierWebsite: https://www.speechandvoiceworks.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speechandvoiceworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredvoicecoach/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EmpoweredVoiceCoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-sofiane-katzenmaier-ms-ccc-slp-940ba911a/
Scaling a speaking business is one thing, but creating one that fuels your life rather than consuming it? That is where the real strategy comes in. We talk a lot about revenue and reach, but we also have to talk about how to make sure this business works for the people who matter most—our families. On this episode of The Wealthy Speaker Podcast, I am thrilled to welcome back Sarah McVanel. She has been on a remarkable journey, and today she's sharing how she built the business of her dreams while ensuring her family didn't just survive the growth, but thrived right along with it. Get ready to find your momentum as we dive into Sarah's story. Highlights you won't want to miss: Designing a Speaking Business Your Family Can Thrive In 0:00 Why Sarah started her business 2:00 In cahoots with the family 6:00 Staying connected on the road 10:00 Keeping focus when needed 14:00 What do we have left to give? 21:00 What do you need to feel safe? 26:00 Curating the future 28:30 See you next time 34:45 If you want to be sure you're creating a speaking business where you and your family can both thrive, 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/
On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with composer, performer, and educator Casey Cangelosi for a conversation that moves comfortably between teaching, podcasting, composing, and the realities of building a life in the percussion world. Casey teaches at James Madison University, where he directs a busy percussion studio and constantly balances artistic ambition with the practical challenges of giving students meaningful performance opportunities.We talk about how he approaches programming percussion ensemble, often leaning toward smaller-group repertoire that allows more students to develop chamber instincts and real musical ownership. That naturally leads into a larger discussion about education, specifically the gap that can exist between strong performance skills and deep knowledge of repertoire. Casey makes a compelling case for listening, score study, and curiosity as essential parts of becoming a complete musician.A big part of Casey's recent creative life has been the Percussion Podcast, where he hosted more than 300 episodes of conversations with percussionists and composers. He reflects honestly on what that project gave him, as a communicator, teacher, and community builder, as well as the real workload of producing that many episodes and the challenge of keeping conversations fresh over time.We also spend time inside Casey's composing process. He talks about the difference between writing for hands versus writing for humans, and how limitations, instrumentation, skill level, or context can actually unlock more interesting musical ideas. Increasingly, he's thinking about accessibility in repertoire: writing music that still feels compelling but can reach more performers instead of only fitting one ideal player.Toward the end, Casey shares some of the unexpected places his music has recently appeared, including projects connected to theater, dance, and visual art, from a performance context in Mannheim, to an installation tied to Ligeti's 100 Metronomes, to a circus production in Italy using his piece Bad Touch. It's a reminder that percussion music continues to travel in surprising directions.Key TakeawaysTeaching requires balancing artistry and logistics — ensemble programming often means finding ways for more students to perform meaningfully.Listening and score study deepen musicianship — strong playing should be paired with a deep knowledge of repertoire.Podcasting builds community but demands consistency — producing hundreds of episodes requires serious time and energy.Constraints can unlock creativity — limitations often lead to stronger compositional ideas.Writing for performers matters — accessible repertoire can reach more musicians without sacrificing musical depth.Percussion music is expanding beyond traditional venues — Casey's work now appears in theater, visual art, and interdisciplinary projects.Curiosity fuels long careers — staying open to new contexts keeps creative work evolving.Music from the EpisodeScry - Casey CangelosiBlink - Casey CangelosiThe Big Audition - Casey CangelosiLigeti: Symphonic Poem for 100 Metronomes - Casey CangelosiAbout the PodcastThe Bandwich Tapes is a podcast hosted by Brad Williams, featuring conversations with musicians, composers, producers, and creative thinkers about their musical journeys. Each episode explores the influences, decisions, and experiences that shape a life in music—one conversation at a time.Connect with the ShowEmail: contact@thebandwichtapes.com
In today's episode, I'm sharing an inspiring conversation with Jen Gottlieb all about building visibility, becoming a confident communicator, and using public speaking to grow your brand and business. Jen shares her journey from actress to sought-after keynote speaker, along with practical strategies for getting on stages, crafting compelling presentations, and overcoming the fear of being seen. Whether you want to speak at live events or simply become more confident showing up online, this episode will help you step into the spotlight with purpose.Listen to the full episode to hear:Why public speaking and personal branding are becoming even more valuable in the age of AIJen's framework for crafting engaging keynote speeches using storytelling and audience pain pointsThe biggest mistakes speakers make on stage — and how to avoid sounding robotic or performativePractical ways to start getting speaking opportunities, even if you're brand new to public speakingJen's powerful mindset shift for overcoming fear and finding the courage to be seenWant to quit your job in the next 6-12 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society: https://startupsociety.comHave you already started your business, but it isn't generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck! https://gillianperkins.as.me/?appointmentType=57013246FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:Grab our free course: Small Business 101 - https://gillianperkins.com/free-training-small-business-101/Learn “The $100K Method” with our free audio course - https://www.gillianperkins.com/100k-method-signupWork with Gillian Perkins:Apply for $100K Mastermind: https://gillianperkins.com/100k-mastermindGet your online biz started with Startup Society: https://startupsociety.comLearn more about Gillian: https://gillianperkins.comInstagram: @GillianZPerkins
Your child says “fine,” shrugs, and disappears into their room, and you're left wondering what you missed. We sit down with international conversation coach Jackie Bailey to unpack why kids and teens often stay quiet even when parents are trying hard, and how small shifts in everyday parenting communication can rebuild confidence fast.Jackie shares the three conversations every child needs but rarely gets: “I see you,” “Let me try,” and “You're safe with me.” We talk about how judgment, quick fixes, and big emotional reactions can accidentally silence kids, then we replace those habits with practical tools like curiosity questions, calm responses, and letting kids solve problems with support instead of rescue. You'll also hear why “How was your day?” is basically a courtesy question, and how better prompts can unlock real stories, feelings, and trust.We also dig into the modern barrier of phones and social media, including the body-language message we send when we keep a device in our hands. Jackie explains simple connection practices that build self-esteem and communication skills from the inside out: using your child's name, making eye contact, listening for keywords, and reflecting them back so kids know they matter.If you're raising a shy child, dealing with school stress, or just trying to create a home where honest conversations happen, this one gives you a clear path forward. Subscribe, share this with a parent or educator who needs it, and leave a review. What's one question you'll ask your child today to help them open up?Connect with JackieFind her on her website here, check out the Speak Feed Lead Facebook page or Instagram page, and listen to the podcast In The Groove with TJ. Welcome to Speak Out Stand Out — the show where we build confidence in our future, one voice at a time. I'm your host, Elizabeth Green.I grew up shy, so I know firsthand how life-changing it can be when someone helps you find your voice. Now, I get to help kids and teens do exactly that — and this podcast is a place to share those tools with you.Each week, I talk with experts and inspiring guests about simple, practical and tangible ways to help the young people in Thanks for listing! Be sure to check out the show notes for additional resources including a free public speaking lesson and 52 fun practice prompts. And if you enjoyed what you heard today, please give us a follow. Thanks for Listening to Speak Out, Stand OutLike what you hear? We would love if you would rate and review our podcast so it can reach more families. Also - grab our free mini lesson on impromptu speaking here. This is ideal for kids ages 6+.Interested in checking out our Public Speaking & Debate courses? Find more here!
If you want to do your best, you'd better get your rest.The quality of your sleep fundamentally affects the quality of your communication. Communicating well, Dr. Cheri Mah says, starts with being well-rested.“Sleep impacts nearly every aspect of how you function,” says Mah, a sleep physician, adjunct lecturer at Stanford Sleep Medicine Center, and internationally recognized expert on sleep and human performance. In her research and work, particularly with elite athletes and professional sports teams, she explores the link between getting rest and doing our best. “If you are getting quality sleep, you can think more clearly, react under pressure, make good judgment calls, have more patience, be more empathetic,” she says.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Mah and host Matt Abrahams explore strategies for better sleep, from bedtime routines to paying off “sleep debt” to the “nappuccino” — a caffeine-fueled power nap. Whether you struggle to sleep or can nod off at any time or place, Mah's insights reveal why doing our best requires getting our rest.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Dr. Cheri MahEp.183 Rethinks: How Anxiety Can Fuel Better 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 (02:57) - Sleep & Performance (04:11) - Better Sleep Habits (06:16) - Quieting a Racing Mind (07:49) - Dr. Mah's Night Routine (09:19) - Sleep Extension (10:52) - Preparing for Big Events (11:44) - The Nappuccino (13:21) - Managing Jet Lag (15:56) - Chronotypes Explained (18:00) - Starting the Day with Sleep (19:40) - The Final Three Question (23:57) - 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.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
What makes a motivational talk actually stick, long after the applause?In this audio from our Back Stage with Speaking Your Brand live show, you'll experience powerful, real-time signature talks from three of our recent Thought Leader Academy grads Kimberly Brock, Susana Alvarez, and Teresa Phillips.Each blends personal story, practical frameworks, and a clear message that moves beyond inspiration into action.Hear how each speaker:Uses personal turning points to create emotional connectionTranslates their experiences into clear, teachable frameworksBalances heart + strategy so the audience feels and learnsInvites the audience into reflection and real changeIf you're working on your own signature talk or want your message to resonate more deeply, this session will show you what “motivational speaking with substance” actually looks like in practice.We also have a roundtable discussion about what they've learned from being in the Thought Leader Academy and what's next for them as speakers and thought leaders.You can watch the video at https://youtube.com/live/dzS1lEkZu-k.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/472/ Watch the video at https://youtube.com/live/dzS1lEkZu-kKimberly's website: https://www.kimberlybrock.com/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Apply for our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect on LinkedIn:Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxKimberly Brock = https://www.linkedin.com/in/startwithkimberlybrock/ Susana Alvarez = https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanaalvarezsrprojectmanager/ Teresa Phillips = https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-phillips-01249720b/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 355: What a Signature Talk Is and What It Should be Doing for You
Who decides what makes for a great speaker?Meet Dominic Colenso!Dominic is a Communication, Leadership and Sales Speaker. He is all about helping you not just speak, but make an impact!Originally an actor in blockbuster movies and theatre by profession, he transitioned into public speaking and communications using the same toolbox that he had from acting.By the time he was 26 Dominic Colenso had flown a spaceship, lost a million dollars and been fired by Simon Cowell. He now empowers businesses, sales teams and leaders around the world to increase the impact of their communication and perform at their best under pressure. He's also the host of the Why Life's A Pitch podcast.Listen as Dominic shares: - a fresh perspective on public speaking - why your presentations are boring - the audience's expectation from your presentation - how to be an expert storyteller - why Sales professionals struggle to sell - how to make an impact when presenting - how to communicate effectively...and so much more!Connect with Dominic: Website: https://www.dominiccolenso.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DominiccolensoAdditional Resources: "Why Life's A Pitch Podcast" by Dominic ColensoListen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-be-a-great-public-speaker-make-an-impact/id1614151066?i=1000767220667 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ajg1G2FmKe2PV14CNC1sf?si=PhAMrtC5S82r0LRWkrH8-A YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7Fvqz8NAis&t=8s
Confidence, clarity, and speaking when it matters.Confident communication isn't about being the loudest in the room. For Susie Wolff, it's about displaying assurance before you even open your mouth.Wolff is a former professional race car driver, managing director of F1 Academy, and author of Driven. Throughout her career in one of the world's most male-dominated industries, she's learned that confidence starts within. “If you want others to believe in you, you need to at least have confidence in your own abilities,” she says. By letting her capabilities speak for themselves, Wolff felt she didn't have to. “I was never the loudest voice in the room. But I made sure when I did speak that I really had something to say.”In this special episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, co-hosted by Matt Abrahams and Tiggy Valen, Wolff shares how inner drive creates outer clarity. From delivering hard truths with empathy to achieving buy-in for a bold vision, Wolff offers lessons on communicating with confidence, even in the face of stiff competition.Episode Reference Links:Susie WolffSusie's Book: DrivenTiggy ValenPaddock ProjectEp.235 Refine, Reframe, Repeat: Make Your Communication a Slam Dunk 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 (03:06) - Early Motorsport Passion (04:01) - Finding Your Voice (05:33) - Building Confidence (06:28) - Becoming a Leader (08:48) - Cross-Cultural Communication (09:57) - Building F1 Academy (14:20) - Giving Tough Feedback (17:32) - Embracing Discomfort (20:01) - The Final Three Questions (26:18) - 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.This episode is brought to you by Babbel. Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can get started on your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription.Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
What separates a good talk from a true thought leadership talk?It's not just the story; it's what you do with it.In this audio from our Back Stage with Speaking Your Brand live show, you'll hear powerful 10-minute signature talks from two of our recent Thought Leader Academy grads Heather Beebe and Lauren Yankoff, each transforming personal experience into clear, actionable frameworks.Hear how they:Turn real-life challenges into compelling audience entry pointsReveal the deeper problem most people are missingIntroduce simple, memorable frameworks that guide actionMove from story → insight → transformationIf you've ever wondered how to go from “telling your story” to delivering a talk that positions you as a thought leader, this session will show you exactly how it's done.We also have a roundtable discussion about what they've learned from being in the Thought Leader Academy and what's next for them as speakers and thought leaders.You can watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5XgfQgtW5s. 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/471/ Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5XgfQgtW5s Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Join our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect on LinkedIn:Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxDiane Diaz = https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianediazLauren Yankoff = https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-yankoff/ Heather Beebe = https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherbeebe/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 355: What a Signature Talk Is and What It Should be Doing for You
In this episode of Kingdom Crossroads, TS Wright sits down with Katie Hornor—missionary, entrepreneur, and founder of the National Christian Association of Professional Speakers—to explore how faith-driven leadership can transform business and public speaking.Katie shares her journey from missionary work in Mexico to building successful businesses and coaching Christian entrepreneurs. She introduces the concept of the Flamingo Advantage, a powerful framework for living and leading authentically as a believer in the marketplace.This conversation dives deep into how Christians can elevate their message, develop excellence in communication, and step into influence across industries—without compromising biblical values.Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & guest welcome01:10 – Katie's testimony and missionary journey04:30 – Transition from missions to business ownership07:00 – The need for excellence in Christian speaking09:10 – The origin of The Flamingo Advantage11:30 – Faith-centered business strategy and leadership14:30 – Building a national Christian speakers network17:00 – How to discover your speaking gift22:00 – The importance of practice and preparation24:30 – How to connect with Katie and her resourcesKey TakeawaysYour faith should influence every area of life—including business and leadership.Public speaking is a skill that can be developed through intentional practice.Excellence in communication opens doors to influence culture for Christ.The marketplace is a mission field—not separate from ministry.Authenticity and integrity are essential for long-term impact.Notable Quotes“Work is worship, and the marketplace is a mission field.”“You don't have to speak on a ‘Christian stage' to represent Christ.”“If something is worth doing, it's worth doing poorly until you can do it well.”Resources & Links
"Cold outreach is a great way to start — but it's not how you scale."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this solo episode, host Dan Irvin makes the case that the most efficient gig you'll ever book is the one you just finished. The problem? Most speakers walk off stage, shake a few hands, grab a photo, and move on — completely missing the two, three, maybe five opportunities that were already sitting in that room.Dan breaks down the exact post-event process he uses to turn every speaking gig into referrals, rebookings, and long-term relationships — including the story of a low-fee local event that turned into over $50,000 in workshops with a client he's still working with today. This isn't about doing more work. It's about doing the right work after the work most people think is the finish line.You'll learn:Why the stage is just the beginning — and what your job actually looks like in the 48 hours after you leave itHow Dan's post-event process generates referrals, repeat bookings, and long-term clients on autopilotThe handwritten thank you note habit Dan swears by (and why it still works in 2025)Why post-event calls are non-negotiable — and exactly what Dan covers in every single oneThe performance review section: how to ask for honest feedback without making it awkwardThe one question Dan always asks to surface referrals — and who you should (and shouldn't) be asking it toWhy most event planners won't bring the same speaker back year over year — and why that's actually great news for your businessHow to stay top of mind without forcing the relationshipThe $50,000 follow-up: what happened when Dan showed up to a packed standing-room event he almost didn't takeWhy your next 10–15 gigs are probably already sitting in rooms you've spoken inAnd much, much more! "Your next gigs are already sitting in the rooms you've spoken in — but only if you treat the relationship that way."Want help building a post-event system that actually works?Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA — Dan and the team will look at your audience, pipeline, and revenue model and help you figure out exactly 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.
What stops you from speaking up when it matters most?This week on Think Fast Talk Smart, we're featuring a special episode from TED Business. Healthcare leader Sarah Crawford-Bohl offers a practical, compassionate framework to have difficult conversations with clarity and heart — and shows how it can lead to stronger teams and real impact.TED Business is a podcast from TED that offers you a new idea and perspective for any business conundrum — whether you want to learn how to land that promotion, set smart goals, undo injustice at work, or unlock the next big innovation. Every Monday, host Modupe Akinola of Columbia Business School presents the most powerful and surprising ideas that illuminate the business world. After the talk, you'll get a mini-lesson from Modupe on how to apply the ideas in your own life — because business evolves every day, and our ideas about it should, too. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or here.Episode Reference Links:TED Business 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 (02:46) - If Not You, Then Who? (04:01) - The Cost of Silence (05:25) - Avoiding Conflict at Work (06:20) - Why Speaking Up Matters (07:30) - Building Courage Through Practice (08:40) - A Moral Compass for Conversations (12:01) - Handling Tough Feedback (17:41) - QORC Apology Framework (19:31) - 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.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
What if the way you communicate is the biggest factor shaping your success? In this episode of Jake & Gino Podcast, we sit down with bestselling author and communication expert Carmine Gallo to break down why storytelling and clear communication are essential skills for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to make an impact. Carmine—author of Talk Like TED, The Bezos Blueprint, and Viral Voices—shares powerful insights on how the most influential people in the world craft messages that inspire action at scale. From boardrooms to global stages, the principles of great communication haven't changed—the platforms have. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why storytelling is the most powerful tool in business and leadership How to communicate ideas with clarity, confidence, and impact The key traits of “viral voices” and influential speakers How top leaders connect emotionally with their audience Practical tips to improve your communication skills immediately Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, content creator, or leader, mastering communication can transform your results—and your relationships.