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The Speaker Lab

Grant Baldwin from The Speaker Lab podcast will be sharing speaking business tactics, tips, and strategies from his own experience, case studies, and interviewing the experts. Whether you're just getting started trying to get your first booking or you're a veteran speaker looking to build and grow your business, this is for you. Grant has built a multiple six-figure per year business as a speaker having presented to over 500,000 people in over 450 paid speaking gigs. We'll talk about speaker marketing, working with speaker bureaus and agents, building your platform, negotiating fees, social media marketing, networking, storytelling, humor, operating the business and so much more!
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Now displaying: 2022
Aug 2, 2022
Are we facing a recession? What does that mean for your speaking business? 
 
We’re answering these questions and more during Episode 405 of The Speaker Lab Podcast. The one and only Erick Rheam is guiding our conversation with strategies you can use in these uncertain times to recession-proof your speaking business.
 
During this episode, we’ll talk about how to lead your business through a recession with confidence rather than fear, why you must invest in marketing and yourself, and why you have to take the leap and go virtual. Speakers have had to pivot on a moment’s notice over the last two years, and uncertain economic times are no different. Erick will talk about where you need to flex and when standing firm is okay. Whether you are just beginning to build your business or you’ve been at this for a while, this episode will equip you for what’s next. Erick’s experience, expertise, and transparency will provide practical steps to recession-proof your speaking business — no matter what happens.
 
Here’s what you’ll learn from this episode:
  • What is a recession?
  • Organizational response to a recession
  • Impact on travel, workshops, and training budgets
  • When to update your demo video, website and other marketing tools
  • How to write and publish a book to elevate credibility
  • Why to keep investing in yourself and building skills
  • Why you need to go virtual and why it’s so beneficial
  • How to ask for referrals
  • Four questions you have to ask yourself
  • And much more!
Tweetable: "Now is not the time to be vague."
Jul 26, 2022
When it comes to building your brand, Rory Vaden is the expert you want in your corner. He's committed to helping others identify the problem they solve and build a strategy for lasting success.
 
Rory has a unique story of how he came to be an entrepreneur, found his place on the stage, and embraced the wisdom and insight of others so he could keep growing. As a college student, he found his niche in door-to-door sales. With a knack for developing principles of personal success and development, he soon found himself on the speaking stage and rubbing shoulders with mentors that would change the trajectory of his future.
 
His mindset, experience, and intentionality have set Rory apart in the industry. If you want to learn how to build a brand that will set you apart, this episode is for you!
 
Here’s what you’ll learn from this episode:
  • The value of mentorship
  • The difference between a good and great speaker
  • How to be intentional in networking
  • Building your sales team and structure
  • Why you have to “nail” your uniqueness
  • Can you identify your niche alone?
  • Why you need one-on-one coaching
  • And much more!
Tweetable: “You are always most powerfully positioned to serve the person you once were.”
Jul 19, 2022

It’s time for the 40 Speaking Lessons from 400 Episodes finale!

For Part 4 we’re bringing back 10 final lessons from former podcast guests. These speakers are not only the real deal, but their insight brings incredible value to the aspiring or “in the trenches” entrepreneur. Collectively these tips will raise the bar when it comes to the success and sustainability of your speaking business.

As we wrap up this series, you won’t want to miss the final 10 lessons that will complete your list! As speakers, it’s essential to keep learning, growing, and asking questions in an effort to refine your craft and bring your best to the stage. These lessons will help do just that, and we’re thrilled to share them for Episode 403 of The Speaker Lab Podcast. Enjoy!

Here are the final 10 lessons to help you become a better speaker:

31. Lead with appreciation and interest to build relationships (Selena Soo, Ep. 178)
32. How to use the “messy middle in speaking (Nancy Duarte, Ep. 262)
33. Find a balance between being grateful and hungry (Josh Linkner, Ep. 266)
34. It’s important to find a market for your passion (Clay Herbert, Ep. 260)
35. Turn your clients into fans (David Meerman Scott, Ep. 272)
36. Stay informed to stay relevant (Scott Stratten, Ep. 259)
37. Learn the ABCDs of your personal brand (Sylvie di Giusto, Ep. 243)
38. Responsiveness always trumps overthinking (Andrew Davis, Ep. 181)
39. Know how to serve all three of your audiences (Joey Coleman, Ep. 212)
40. The best speakers are like coffee (Mitch Joel, Ep. 278)

Don’t miss our book giveaway! We’re giving away 40 copies of The Successful Speaker to celebrate 400 episodes. This is the last week to enter, so CLICK HERE and enter your info to get started!

Jul 12, 2022

It’s time to continue the rewind and our 40 Speaking Lessons from 400 Episodes series for Episode 402 of The Speaker Lab Podcast!

For Part 3 we are looking back at 10 more incredible lessons from our very own podcast guests. Living out the lessons shared by these seasoned speakers will not only strengthen you as a speaker but take your business and vision for the future to the next level.

It's time to add to your list from Episodes 400 and 401! As you set your goals and put in the sweat equity, these pillars of success will help guide your way! Whether you’re just starting, or need a refresh on what will set you apart in the industry, this episode is for you. Enjoy!

Here are 10 (more!) key lessons to help you become a better speaker:

21. Harness the power of the freedom compass (Michael Hyatt, Ep. 246)
22. A strong personal brand will set you apart from the competition (Rick Clemons, Ep. 241)
23. There’s no magic solution to get in front of event planners (Josh McGhee, Ep. 245)
24. Why you have to lovingly punch your audience in the gut (Todd Henry, Ep. 224)
25. It’s important to craft an experience for your audience (Stephen Shapiro, Ep. 179)
26. Be okay with sharing the real you (Michael Barber, Ep. 195)
27. Exposure is the key to success (Matthew Kimberly, Ep. 273)
28. How to prepare right before you get on stage (Melanie Deziel, Ep. 192)
29. Show your audience you’re an expert, not just a speaker (Thomas Frank, Ep. 214)
30. There’s a difference between being a good baker and running a good bakery (Erick Rheam, Ep. 247)

Don’t miss our book giveaway! We’re giving away 40 copies of The Successful Speaker to celebrate 400 episodes. CLICK HERE and enter your info to get started!

Jul 5, 2022

We’re thrilled to continue the rewind and our 40 Speaking Lessons from 400 Episodes series for Episode 401 of The Speaker Lab Podcast!

For Part 2 we are looking back at 10 more timeless tips from some of our very own podcast guests. What’s awesome about this next series of lessons is that while they were recorded at different times, together they provide a solid framework of guidance that will help you take your speaking business to the next level. Throughout this episode, you’ll hear clips from 10 different guests that have joined us over the years. Their insight is so valuable and their wisdom unmatched. They have been there and are passionate about helping you learn from their experiences!

Pull out your notes from Episode 400 and get ready to add them to your list! No matter your niche, you’re in the right place for these timeless lessons that will help you become a better speaker and build an even stronger business. Enjoy!

Here are 10 (more!) key lessons to help you become a better speaker:

11. The best way to sell yourself is to get on stage
12. You have to develop your voice
13. Know what you’re good at, and what you’re not
14. Momentum matters in your speaking business
15. Position yourself as the professional you are
16. Tension is a powerful tool
17. Learn the importance of saying no
18. Be persistent and methodical in your cold outreach
19. Being good at speaking takes hard work, not just talent
20. Stay focused on what matters even as you grow

Don’t miss our book giveaway! We’re giving away 40 copies of The Successful Speaker to celebrate 400 episodes. CLICK HERE and enter your info to get started!

Jun 28, 2022

After 400 episodes, it’s a time to celebrate!

We’re doing a rewind and sharing 40 Speaking Lessons from 400 Episodes in this new series of The Speaker Lab Podcast.

It’s a privilege to look at where we’ve been and what we’ve learned over the years. Week by week we’ll unpack some of the finest lessons learned through personal experience and conversations with our awesome guests.

For Episode 400, our very own Grant Baldwin is joined by Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith to reveal the first 10 of 40 lessons. Each lesson is unique and applies to various components of building your speaking business. No one lesson is more important than the other, but rather together make up a collection of insight and wisdom from those who have gone before us in their own journey to the stage.

Get out your notebook! Whether you’re new to the industry or ready for a refresh, these lessons will stand the test of time and help you take your speaking business to the next level.

Here are 10 key lessons to help you become a better speaker:

  1. Be a steakhouse & not a buffet
  2. Be clear on your goals for speaking
  3. Your best marketing is a great talk
  4. Be proactive (not reactive) in your marketing efforts
  5. Very little of running a speaking business actually involves speaking
  6. No one can sell you better than you
  7. Your marketing materials matter
  8. Have a long-term perspective
  9. When building beyond the stage, you can’t do it all
  10. This is simple, but not easy

Don't miss our book giveaway! We're giving away 40 copies of The Successful Speaker to celebrate 40 episodes. Head over to thespeakerlab.com/freebook and enter your info to get started!

Jun 21, 2022

To some people, it might seem that Tripp Crosby is constantly shifting gears and focus. But to know and hear from him, it’s easy to see that opportunity has gifted Tripp the ability to unveil his real passion. Having built a successful video content business, it seemed like Tripp was all set. However, after some soul searching and brainstorming Tripp realized that it was time to pursue his own personal brand.

During this episode, Tripp unpacks the value of being singularly focused, how to become a real expert, and more importantly how to maintain your authenticity and passion. There’s no one right way to finding your success, and Tripp is here here to share his insights and wisdom from the road less traveled. So much to glean from this conversation!

Here's what you'll learn from this episode:

  • How to discover the energy within yourself
  • How to find your lane and your confidence
  • Why you must really know your audience
  • How to help an event win at their thing
  • The difference between virtual speaking and virtual hosting
  • How to tell people what you’re all about
  • And much more!
Jun 14, 2022

Sharing in the excitement of our students’ success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab! Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear directly from our students about their experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.

He credits (or blames!) his mom for directing him to a career on the stage after she made him attend dance lessons with his sister at age 8. While it wasn’t his favorite pastime, he learned the art of stage presence at a very young age, and the rest is history!

Working as a corporate banker, Ravi spent years leading and building sales teams in early-stage start-ups to build what he would describe as his “portfolio career.” In September 2020 he quit his full-time job and started his own speaking business. Understanding the risks, challenges, and rewards of taking this leap excited Ravi, and his unique intuition that this was his time helped pave the way.

During their conversation Ravi talks about investing in himself, how he found The Speaker Lab, and how he’s built relationships through building his business. Storytelling is his passion and Ravi shares his strategy of repositioning his offerings and redefining his niche to find success. His journey is unique, engaging, and will keep you on the end of your seat!

Also, guess what? Ravi is joining The Speaker Lab to lead his very own Virtual VIP Cohort! Interested to learn how you can be part of this opportunity? Click HERE.

The Finer Details of this Show:

  • What it looks like to trust your intuition
  • Why you must build relationships and connections
  • How to know when it’s your time
  • Defining your story and unique method to solve a problem
  • Answering the call in your career
  • How to work with Ravi and The Speaker Lab
  • And much more!
Jun 7, 2022

It started with a magician gig at age 12 and turned into a passion and profession that has made Shep Hyken one of the best in the business. With a knack for entertainment and heart for customer experience, Shep has relied on tried-and-true values to build his business while managing to embrace the ever-changing landscape of the speaking industry.

He understands the numbers game, how to face imposter syndrome, and is here to share why one gig should lead to your next. During this episode Shep highlights the vital components of sales and marketing and why follow-through will make all the difference in building your business. He relied on the sweat equity of grass-roots efforts to make a space for himself in the industry and has insight and wisdom for every speaker on their own journey to the stage.

Shep’s determination started by beginning with the end in mind. Even in his early 20’s he knew where he wanted to be and met the challenge of getting there with courage, humility, and enthusiasm. His wisdom and experience provide refreshing perspective on getting back to basics to build a successful business!

The Finer Details of This Show:

  • Why you need to write thank you notes
  • How to ask for feedback
  • The value of the customer service experience
  • Strategies for making connections
  • How to do the numbers game
  • Why reputation and content marketing matters
  • The hunt vs. the feast
  • And much more!
May 31, 2022
Sharing in the excitement of our student's success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab! Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear directly from our students about their experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.

Tec Clark is in the business of helping others develop the work culture they want to be known for. How does he do it? He spends his time on the speaking stage with small and medium businesses in a variety of industries. A journey that stemmed from his work at Nova Southeastern University led to him sharing his message and eventually finding The Speaker Lab Elite program and podcast.

You might be surprised to learn that Tec’s adventure to the stage began with his career as a scuba instructor at The University of Florida. Recognized for the way in which he instructed and how he developed the diving program with his team truly set Tec apart. His commitment to creating a culture of excellence, skill development, and safety, eventually developed into the methodologies that he has applied to the message he shares today.

When he came to The Speaker Lab, he was on a mission to package his message succinctly and effectively for his audiences. Because of his experience in the Elite program, his speaking business and consulting opportunities have grown exponentially. Tec’s passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to his craft are second-to-none. You must hear his story!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • How TSL helped Tec take his speaking to the next level
  • Why you need the system and program in the Elite program
  • Understanding the craft of speaking
  • Building industry relationships and networking
  • How to have the best message for your audience
  • Why you must pay attention to the opportunities in front of you
  • Getting clear with your message and niche
  • How to connect passion with impact
  • And much more!
May 24, 2022
Tim Schurrer stepped away from his role as COO of StoryBrand to pursue a full-time speaking career. Determined to pave the way for his own defined success, Tim has kept his focus away from the cultural narrative of what it looks like to be an accomplished entrepreneur and instead set his sights on where he finds true meaning and fulfillment.
 
With a mission to learn, serve, and grow through his platform on stage, Tim is helping others to transform their own journey by beginning with the end in mind. His new book, The Secret Society of Success unpacks the steps to defining personal measures for success and fully realizing the joy and meaning behind your work in any industry.
 
Whether you’re just beginning or have been in the business for some time, Tim’s fresh perspective on defining your personal success and building a thriving business is a message everyone needs to hear. His steadiness and deep passion for his work has made way for an intentional journey of embracing opportunity!
 
The Finer Details of this Show
  • Navigating a new career path
  • Why fulfillment might not exist where we thought it would
  • How to define your own success
  • Why doing the right stuff matters
  • Lead and lag measures, and why you need to know what they are
  • The difference between an author and a writer
  • Why you shouldn’t be defined by success
  • What is the motivation for the journey you are on?
  • And much more!
May 17, 2022

What started as a parking attendant at the happiest place on earth, led to a lucrative business as a speaker and entertainer. Rob Ferre has always gravitated to the stage, and now he’s got a highly successful business that has taken him across the globe.

Whether he’s the DJ at a major corporate event or giving their keynote the morning after a celebration, Rob has mastered the fundamentals of keeping an audience engaged and coming back for more! He pivoted through the global pandemic, adapted to the call for virtual gigs, and exudes a level of enthusiasm that provides a fresh take on how to make your own way in the speaking industry.

Rob is passionate about helping others see the possibilities within their speaking business and demonstrates the possibilities through his own skills as a DJ, emcee, keynote speaker, and his work with gamification. He’s giving insight on monetization, gaining access to the industry, and how to balance the evolution of a speaking business.

Whether you’re wondering how to shake things up, or want to hear a story of courage to try something different, then this episode is for you!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Developing a unique speaking business model
  • Finding the courage to try something different
  • Is virtual here to stay in the speaking business?
  • Audience engagement and the importance of checking in
  • Why he’s staying in the speaking industry
  • His favorite ride at Disneyland (can you guess?)
  • And much more!
May 10, 2022

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down with some of our coaches and take a deep dive into some of the hottest topics for speakers?

Join Maryalice Goldsmith, Director of Student Success, and Coach Jeremy Rochford as they take a deep dive into 3 reasons why your talk is boring and what you can do to change it!

Jeremy begins the conversation by challenging listeners to begin framing who they want to become as a speaker, by acknowledging what they don’t want to be. Together they talk about imposter syndrome, unchallenged content, and avoiding risk as some of the greatest challenges speakers face, yet have the power to change! The audience wants nothing more than for you to succeed, and Jeremy champions this claim by unpacking tools that help speakers lower the barriers of relatability with their listeners.

Your message is full of opportunities to connect with your audience, meet them where they’re at, and help people feel and think in a different way. Jeremy and Maryalice are taking a “pause” from the front lines of coaching to give insight and wisdom into making your talk the very best it can be!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Why you don’t want to be memorable for the wrong reasons
  • What are the biggest challenges speakers face?
  • Why your audience wants you to win
  • Different types of humor you can add to your talk
  • How can you add flavor to your message?
  • What it means to “niche down”
  • What happens when you add the wrong kind of humor
  • And much more!
May 3, 2022
As speakers, many of us have a love-hate relationship with associations. Should we become a member? What are the benefits? How will this help me grow my business? Is it worth it?

For Episode 392 we’re sitting down with President and CEO of the National Speaker Association, Jaime Nolan, to unwrap the ins and outs of what the NSA does for members and their businesses.

While Jaime is new to NSA, she brings over two decades of experience with associations and meeting planners, and therefore a unique perspective that is much needed in this era of “rebuilding” post-pandemic. Focused on recreating an elite member experience and helping members build stronger businesses and be better speakers, the NSA is reexamining its conference structure, resources, and how they cater to members in different seasons of their careers.

During this episode, Jaime will reveal some of how she’s rewriting the playbook within, and some of the major changes they’ve already made to better serve their constituents. Whether you’re already a member, considering joining, or just want to understand what the “association experience” is all about, this episode will answer all those questions and more!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • The post-pandemic life of an association
  • What is the role of an association in your speaking career?
  • How to assess if a membership is right for you
  • How an association can help diversify your business opportunities
  • Utilizing resources and opportunities to network
  • What makes a healthy, functioning association?
  • The scarcity mindset vs. abundance mindset
  • Why the NSA can’t talk about speaker fees
  • And much more!
Apr 26, 2022

Sharing in the excitement of our students' success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab! Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear directly from our students about their experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.

Shawn Singleton is a highly accomplished individual who credits his success to a deep desire to “stop the cycle” of bad habits and take a deeper dive into the concept of “life culture.” His mission to be the best version of himself and help others do the same is at the core of his work.  During this conversation, he shares some of his “ah-ha” moments as one of our Elite students and how he built a firm foundation of fundamentals by working through each module.

Shawn is a champion for transforming mindset and changing the narrative. He started with small speaking gigs as he built his content, but he quickly realized the principles he was sharing were ready for a larger audience. He consistently works to meet leaders where they are and show them how they can build sustainable and successful businesses.

He'd be the first to tell you that his time at The Speaker Lab helped him to narrow his topic, build confidence, and establish a skill set that will serve him as his speaking business continues to grow. Shawn is awesome and has a great story to share!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • The impact of technology and our need to be busy
  • Discovering your passion and finding your niche
  • Making your passion marketable
  • Why building confidence matters
  • Identifying your non-negotiables
  • Managing your nerves and making an impact
  • How to use your voice as a tool
  • And much more!
Apr 19, 2022

He’s a favorite among the TSL family and he knows what it takes to strategically build and sustain a successful business. On pace to double his income in 2022, Erick Rheam has navigated the ups and downs of the past few years with grit and grace.

While there are many crucial resources needed in the process of building a speaking business, this episode highlights one very important yet simple piece you must add to your repertoire.

The abstract.

The abstract is made up of seven parts, fits on one page, and is meant to help you get one step closer to booking that next gig. Erick walks through each of the seven components including a professional headshot, contact information, title and premise of your talk, identifying the problem you solve, testimonials, learning objectives, and references. He’ll also explain why you don’t lead with an abstract, when you should share this resource, and why you never list your speaking fee! Whether you’re a seasoned speaker, or just getting started, there’s always time to create or update your abstract to help achieve the goals of your business! During this episode, Erick will equip and encourage those who are ready to take the next step and make their abstract work for them!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Why an abstract will streamline your thinking
  • How to use an abstract to test the marketplace
  • The value of keeping it short and sweet
  • Why social proof matters
  • Why your objectives have to be tangible
  • What to do when you don’t have testimonials
  • The difference between an abstract and a proposal
  • And much more!
Apr 12, 2022
When the pandemic hit, Alan Stein realized things had to change with his business and he needed to demonstrate the pillars of leadership that he had been talking about for years. Committed to serving others, Alan has diversified his offerings to keep adding value for his audience and keep growing his business.

In addition to writing his second book, Sustain Your Game, Alan created a course and added a coaching piece to his business to continue fulfilling his mission of filling others’ buckets and equipping thriving leaders. During this episode, Alan explains why it’s important to be a low-maintenance speaker, how to show gratitude, and why these two priorities have made such a difference in his success.

In addition to his time on the stage, Alan has authored and leveraged his books to help connect others with his message. As his business continues to grow, he is committed to turning adversity into opportunity --- even amidst a global pandemic --- and gearing up for the next play when the playbook becomes outdated. He’s intentional, inspiring, and building on a strong foundation of timeless pillars of success!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Turning adversity into opportunity
  • Exposing the “Achilles heel” of your business
  • The 24-hour rule
  • Timeless pillars for success
  • Why you must be easy to work with
  • How to show gratitude
  • A wholistic approach to your business
  • Fitting a book into your business
  • And much more!
Apr 5, 2022
Genuine, authentic, relatable, down-to-earth — that is Shane Sams. He gave up his place at the front of the classroom after realizing he wanted to find a way to provide and have the ability to be present for the people who matter most in his life.

What started as making playbooks for coaches and lesson plans for teachers soon turned into a full-blown education company as Shane claimed the title of “online entrepreneur.” Soon after, he and his wife realized they could share their resources and entrepreneurial gifts to help other families take control of their income, gain freedom, and create a future. After selling his education company, Shane stepped into a new venture to help others monetize their knowledge, wisdom, and passion through membership sites.

It might surprise you to learn that Shane only started speaking two years ago! Shane had been podcasting for several years but hadn’t taken the stage. However, he knew that in order to grow his platform, he would need to begin speaking. Together, he and his family decided to go “all in” and give it a try. During the pandemic, Shane received a surprising offer that he simply couldn’t refuse, and the rest is history! Now, he’s speaking to thousands of people on stages larger than he ever could have imagined.

Shane learned to embrace everything about himself and what he could bring to his audience. He would say it took a lot of “reps” to get it right, but his intentional preparation allowed him to be ready for whatever came his way.

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • How to stop your paycheck from owning you
  • Why friendships and relationships are the keys to success
  • Combining passion and purpose with a mission
  • Why you must take control of your income to gain freedom
  • Why you should podcast if you want to speak
  • How to prepare for any opportunity that might come your way
  • Why you have to be quick on your feet and ready to step up
  • And so much more!
Mar 29, 2022
Sharing in the excitement of our student’s success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab. Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear more about our students’ experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.

A near-death experience eventually led Darwin Li to find his place on the speaking stage. He knew there was something he had to give others – insights and hard lessons from failure – that might help them face what flashed before his eyes in an unimaginable situation.

On a mission to discover the very best in himself and change the lives of others, Darwin has a unique ability to touch his audience through stories of reflection and impact. While his personal experience is one of great intensity, he shares his realization of how coaching itself can be life-changing and help draw out the strength and depth in your purpose.

Darwin Li eventually found The Speaker Lab and never looked back. During his conversation with Maryalice, he shares his realization about how TSL gave him “permission” to think differently while still inspiring his audience with a message of leadership. He has completed several programs at The Speaker Lab, and is sharing his experience and commitment to investing in his speaking journey.  The resilience and determination that surround Darwin’s conversation with Maryalice will meet every speaker in any season.

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Do you have to experience trauma to share a deep message?
  • How to understand your purpose through everyday choices
  • Why you need to exercise your mindset
  • What it looks like to reflect on a “would be” life
  • Identifying your ending and different ways to get there
  • Why there’s no shame in needing help
  • How to seize the opportunity and make the next move
  • And much more!
Mar 22, 2022

Amidst a global pandemic and just weeks after he and his wife welcomed their second son into the world, Wolf Millstone decided it was time to leave his full-time sales gig and start Wolf Millstone Group. It was time to take a leap of faith and begin his journey to the stage --- and that’s exactly what happened.

Just one year later and Wolf is bringing in six figures, booking gigs left and right, and is now in a position of needing to scale his business and bring on his first employee. In just 12 months the demand for his message on stage, in workshops, and for training exploded! He has experienced unprecedented growth and success because of his grit and intense desire to learn and apply strategies for success.

Where did he start you might ask? With Episode 001 of The Speaker Lab Podcast. Soon Wolf was listening to three episodes a day, seeking the counsel of trusted mentors and coaches, and then he was off and running with a website and demo reel. He’s first to admit that his temptation to strive for perfection was soon grounded by an intentional shift to start somewhere and keep learning amidst booking his first gigs.

His enthusiasm, passion, and tenacity are unmatched! Wolf’s unique story will inspire any speaker to remember why you started speaking and how you can continue making a difference.

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Where he first got the idea to pursue speaking
  • Why he got fired from his first job
  • What is the exponential sales method?
  • How he applied valuable resources to create his own success
  • Figuring out how much to charge for a gig
  • How he’s diversified what he offers his audience
  • Why you have to ask for help
  • Resisting the urge for perfection
  • And much, much more!
Mar 15, 2022
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down with some of our coaches and take a deep dive into some of the hottest topics for speakers?

Join Maryalice Goldsmith, Director of Student Success, and Lead Coach, Rick Clemons for our second episode of the Coaches Corner series!

Together they're unpacking the 5 biggest mistakes made by aspiring speakers and how to keep them from standing in your way of success.

Our coaches at TSL are in the trenches with students to challenge, encourage, and inspire as they navigate their own path to the stage. The structure of the TSL program and one-on-one coaching affords students the opportunity to seek counsel and rely on a trusted framework that will provide a healthy pace towards growth!

Maryalice and Rick unpack what it looks like to "niche down," why you have to take your speaking career seriously, and what it means to be a "squirrel" --- but you'll have to listen to the episode to understand this one!

Together they share their own experiences and what they've gleaned from working with so many of our TSL students.

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • What it means to work the framework
  • Why you should be a student of the speaking industry
  • How to have an impact with a specific audience
  • Things to consider as you grow your business – hire help!
  • Why clarity gets you booked and paid to speak
  • Why finding your niche will grow your business – faster!
  • Protecting yourself from distraction and comparison
  • And much more!
Mar 8, 2022

So, you’re thinking about hosting a podcast, but you don’t know where to begin?

Jeff Sanders launched his show, The 5 AM Miracle, 8 ½ years ago with no audience, minimal equipment, and the simple goal of expanding on the content he was already providing on his blog.

Fast-forward to today, and he has a wildly successful show that has catapulted his ability to network, market, and book gigs as a speaker and author.

How did he do it? He’s here to share! Jeff quickly realized that his show attracted the kind of people he wanted to work with.

During this episode, Jeff unpacks the power of podcasting and why it’s one of the best mediums to personally showcase your skills and talents. He walks us through the ins and outs, dos and don’ts, and creativity that make up the very best podcasts.

 

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:
  • Why podcasting is personal
  • What keeps an audience coming back for more?
  • Putting a positive spin on your brand for your people
  • Have you missed the opportunity to launch a show?
  • What equipment do you need to start?
  • Why audio quality matters
  • Show notes, hosting sites, and a simple call to action
  • Jeff’s best strategy to grow your podcast – today!
  • And much, much more!
Mar 1, 2022

So, you want to write a book, but you don’t know where to begin. That’s okay! Look no further.

Chandler Bolt leads the organization Self-Publishing School and has helped lead entrepreneurs through the process of bringing their own book to life through self-publishing.

His MOVE writing method helps build momentum through a unique checklist process that keeps the light at the end of the tunnel in focus.

During this episode, you’ll learn more about why self-publishing can help fast-track the opportunity to diversify revenue streams and provide your audience with a more personal introduction of yourself.

Chandler will also address questions about creating your cover, editing, formatting, and when you’ll know the right time to take the leap from rough draft to reality! If you’re at all considering adding a book to your repertoire, this is the episode for you.

Chandler brings actionable next steps, encouragement, and expertise that you don’t want to miss!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Traditional vs. self vs. hybrid, what’s best?!
  • Why your audience needs to meet you, in a book
  • How to self-publish without looking self-published
  • Why it’s important to simplify the process
  • Three must-haves to self-publish
  • The launch triangle
  • And so much more!

Want a copy of his book Published. for free?!
Check out the link here.

Feb 22, 2022
Sharing in the excitement of our student's success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab. Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear more about our students’ experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.

Francesco Samarelli believes in paying it forward to fellow speakers and generously agreed to share about his journey to speaking success. One of the pillars of value for students at TSL is the ability to learn from one another and to be in the trenches together!

For Francesco it all started with an opportunity to take the stage that was followed up with a surprising response --- the audience loved him! He shares his journey of how at a young age his teacher, Mrs. Fowler, helped plant a seed that would inspire him to express himself and use his skill sets to share his message.

During this episode, Maryalice and Francesco take a deep dive into what it looks like to turn a passion into a career and what it looks like to educate and equip others through your message. There's something for everyone!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:
  • How to endure the race
  • His message of emotional management
  • Thriving on mission to share your message
  • How you know when you’re meant to be a speaker
  • Why coaching is vital to your success
  • Mindset, meditation, and other choices that matter
  • Finding focus in the hustle and bustle
  • And much more!
Feb 15, 2022

Are you a speaker? An author? Considering both? Jessi Beyer is both but her journey to this point in her career is not one you might expect! She joined us for Episode 381 to narrate her experience in building a business committed to helping others find healing through their struggles with mental health.

Jessi quickly found that the success of her first book catapulted her into a world of opportunity she’d not yet experienced as a speaker. She talks about her insecurities (or lack there-of!), what kept her motivated and energized, and why coaching earlier in her career was key to her success.

Jessi’s commitment to the process and can-do attitude has helped her pave a path to success, even at such a young age. Her enthusiasm and dedication to her mission and vision are hard to beat!

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • Finding confidence in your message
  • How to find the right audience
  • What it looks like to pivot from speaking to writing, and back again!
  • How to leverage a successful book launch?
  • Finding a balance as an author and speaker
  • Self-publishing vs. traditional vs. hybrid
  • Why putting in the hard work matters
  • And much more!

Want a copy of her book, How To Heal free?! 
Check out the link here.

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