News/Articles

Podcast Ep. 62: More Stories from Speaking School

Let's go behind the scenes! What happens behind the doors of the Speaking School for Women? Funny you should ask! On today's episode, you get an insider's peek into what it's like to take part in this course. I interview three women who graduated from the speaking school and you'll find out their major takeaways, … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 62: More Stories from Speaking School

Podcast Ep. 61: How to Use Small Steps to Accomplish Big Goals with Ashley Lucas

If you have gotten off track or tend to lose sight of your goal, listen up! Get overwhelmed easily by your own goals? If you're constantly setting goals and then getting off track, losing sleep over everything you haven't done yet, or completely forgetting why you set the goal in the first place, you'll love … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 61: How to Use Small Steps to Accomplish Big Goals with Ashley Lucas

How Public Speakers Can Tout Accomplishments Without Laughing or Apologizing

Karen Catlin spent 25 years in the tech industry building software products. She is now an advocate for women in the tech industry, a leadership coach, and co-author of Present: A Techie’s Guide to Public Speaking. Angela invited Karen onto Claim the Stage to discuss how public speakers—particularly women—can talk about their accomplishments and use … Continue reading How Public Speakers Can Tout Accomplishments Without Laughing or Apologizing

Podcast Ep. 60: The Million Dollar Speaker with Breanne Dyck

Do you dream of a million dollar speaking business? Look no further. Trying your hardest to build a speaking business, but still scraping by with small fees and gigs for "exposure?" If you're ready to ramp up your speaking business in a big way, today's guest will show you how. I welcome Breanne Dyck, founder … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 60: The Million Dollar Speaker with Breanne Dyck

Podcast Ep. 59: When It’s Time To Tell A New Story with Hari Stephen Kumar

If you have a platform, use it! Controversial and upsetting events are happening around us all the time. What are you doing as a public speaker to address these events and open the conversation? Deciding not to talk about something because you don't know how or don't want to "go there" isn't helping your audience … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 59: When It’s Time To Tell A New Story with Hari Stephen Kumar

Podcast Ep. 58: Stop Trying to Smash Fear. An Essay.

I hope you're ready to take action. I had two frustrating conversations with two female friends last week that stuck with me. Feeling annoyed when I woke up Saturday morning, I decided to write this essay to get my feelings out on paper. Five pages later, I felt better, but also felt I needed to … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 58: Stop Trying to Smash Fear. An Essay.

4 Ways to Be a Better Public Speaker By Accessing Your Unique Creativity

Many people working in corporate America feel stuck in their jobs, constantly stressing about their responsibilities and wishing they could devote more time (or any time) to their creative passions. After more than 20 years as an advertising executive, Colleen Hindsley has recently left the corporate world behind in order to focus on her creative … Continue reading 4 Ways to Be a Better Public Speaker By Accessing Your Unique Creativity

Podcast Ep. 57: Q&A Episode: Back to Basics

Before you can be a great speaker, make sure you've worked on the fundamentals. Crafting a great story, persuading your audience to action, and bringing a crowd to tears are all signs of a great speaker. But in order to achieve these feats, the fundamentals of speaking must be mastered. In today's episode, you'll hear five … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 57: Q&A Episode: Back to Basics

Podcast Ep. 56: Moving the Inner Critic to Speak from the Heart

What is the inner critic and do we need it? The Inner Critic: friend or foe? What is it there for and how do we work with it to stay sane and enjoy our public speaking experience? In today’s episode, I interview Pam Erb-Melville, the President of PEM Communications, a highly sought-after international speaker, Executive … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 56: Moving the Inner Critic to Speak from the Heart

Podcast Ep. 55: Curiosity Over Perfection

What would you choose? I often hear speakers assign harsh and brutal judgments about their own behavior, thoughts, and feelings before, during, and after a speech. I’m guilty of doing it too— so I know a lot about it. Ever stood in front of an audience and said to yourself, “They look bored. They don’t … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 55: Curiosity Over Perfection

Podcast Ep 54: How to Own + Leverage Your Experience with Karen Catlin

Do you feel awkward when it comes to promoting yourself? What about when you have to put together a professional bio? What are you telling yourself about what to say and what not to say? If you are in a constant battle with sounding credible but not audacious, or experienced but not gloating, you will … Continue reading Podcast Ep 54: How to Own + Leverage Your Experience with Karen Catlin

3 Easy Tricks for Better Storytelling when Public Speaking

Many speakers find storytelling challenging. New speakers often have a hard time finding topics to talk about because they think to themselves, “My life is boring and no one cares,” while more experienced speakers struggle to incorporate stories into their speeches. In episode 52 of Claim the Stage, Angela Lussier interviews Karen Friedman, an executive … Continue reading 3 Easy Tricks for Better Storytelling when Public Speaking

Podcast Ep. 53: The Path of the Creative Soul with Colleen Hindsley

Is your creative soul dying in corporate America? Or, are you afraid of showing your creativity in your own business or on stage? If you answered yes to either of those questions, this episode is for you. On today's show, I interview Colleen Hindsley, a woman who spent more than 20 years as an advertising … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 53: The Path of the Creative Soul with Colleen Hindsley

Public Speaking Tips From a Pro featuring Angela Lussier

In this set of Public Speaking Tips From a Pro, our CEO + founder, Angela Lussier, teaches you how to get the most from public speaking. You’ll learn: 3 ways to make public speaking a tool for self-discovery How to be an amazing public speaker even if you’re shy How to reframe public speaking to … Continue reading Public Speaking Tips From a Pro featuring Angela Lussier

Podcast Ep. 52: Easily Find Topics + Stories in Everyday Life with Karen Friedman

Compelling stories are all around us, but how do you find them? When you need to put together a speech or presentation that sells, negotiates, or persuades, telling stories will make a deep impact on your audience. In today's episode, you'll not only learn how to find topics and stories in your everyday life, but … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 52: Easily Find Topics + Stories in Everyday Life with Karen Friedman

Podcast Ep. 51: A Look Inside the Mysterious World of the Speaker Sisterhood Part 2

Ready for more? Three speeches coming right up! In last week's episode, we celebrated a year of podcasting by going behind the scenes of the Speaker Sisterhood, a network of public speaking clubs for women that I founded last year. Today we're going to continue that adventure by listening to speeches given by three members … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 51: A Look Inside the Mysterious World of the Speaker Sisterhood Part 2

Q&A with Karolynn Sheppard

Karolynn Sheppard is the Assistant Director for Administration at Springfield College. She has been a member of the Springfield Club with Pam Thornton since it launched last August. We checked in with her and here's what she had to say after being a member of the Speaker Sisterhood for the past 9 months. Why did … Continue reading Q&A with Karolynn Sheppard

Podcast Ep. 49.5: Speak Confidently, Articulately, and Without Filler Words with Audrey Mann Cronin

Do you use the words "like," "so," and "um" more often than you'd like? If so, this episode will teach you how to avoid using these words so you can speak with more confidence and impact. Whether you're preparing for an upcoming presentation, interview, or speech, you'll learn strategies to avoid the use of filler words … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 49.5: Speak Confidently, Articulately, and Without Filler Words with Audrey Mann Cronin

Podcast Ep. 49: Removing the Personality Mask with Alex Bynum

Alex Bynum teaches us how to remove the personality mask while on stage and in life. She asks us: Who are you when you're on stage? Who are you when meeting someone new? What about when you're alone? If you ever feel like you might be wearing a "personality mask" to get through certain situations, … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 49: Removing the Personality Mask with Alex Bynum

Be Vocal. Be Visible: The Importance of Speaking Up by Meghan Godorov

As a speaker, you have the power to move groups and individuals to action and reflection. But more importantly, I have found that the speaker’s journey is not only about the effect we have on people but about the profound impact it can have on the speaker both personally and professionally. For example, I present … Continue reading Be Vocal. Be Visible: The Importance of Speaking Up by Meghan Godorov

Podcast Ep. 47: Easily Build + Repurpose Content

As speakers, we are content creators. But are we doing it effectively? Writing a speech, putting together a social media or a blog post, assembling a book, creating a course, and recording a podcast all fall under the umbrella of content creation. If you're speaking, you're likely thinking about content constantly and wondering how to repurpose … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 47: Easily Build + Repurpose Content

The Secret Life of Speaking Up by Angela Lussier

“Angela, it’s your turn.” I hesitantly looked up from my notebook, carefully avoiding the gaze of my coworkers and strategically turning my head away from my boss — the most intimidating person of all. I spoke quickly, succinctly, and left no time for air to enter or leave my lungs. In one long sentence, I … Continue reading The Secret Life of Speaking Up by Angela Lussier

Podcast Ep. 46: Master Your Inner Game with Linda Ugelow

Public speaking isn't just about what you say, it's also about what you think. In today's episode, I interview Linda Ugelow, a public speaking and performing coach who helps entrepreneurs and professionals overcome their self-consciousness and nerves so they can be freely expressive in meetings, on video, or on stage. She has a Master's in Expressive … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 46: Master Your Inner Game with Linda Ugelow

Angela Lussier Finds Her Purpose in Helping Women Find Theirs (BusinessWest)

It took just nine words to change Angela Lussier’s life: “you’ll never be ready; you just have to start.” That’s good advice for entrepreneurs of all kinds, but it was especially relevant for a shy, self-conscious, but creative and ambitious woman who decided her path to leadership was learning to overcome her fear of public … Continue reading Angela Lussier Finds Her Purpose in Helping Women Find Theirs (BusinessWest)

Angela Lussier is giving women a voice at the Speaker Sisterhood (Innovate413)

By Natasha Zena, Innovate413 Angela Lussier has been an entrepreneur for as long as she can remember. In college, she ran a barber shop out of her dorm room, charging five dollars per haircut and offering a 30-minute warranty. At 36, she’s also had a marketing consulting business, a career and business coaching business, and … Continue reading Angela Lussier is giving women a voice at the Speaker Sisterhood (Innovate413)

Podcast Ep. 45: Captivate with Vanessa Van Edwards

Do you wish you could decode people? Do you want a formula for charisma? Do you want to know exactly what to say to your boss, your date, or your networking partner? You need to know how people work. My guest today is Vanessa Van Edwards, a human behavior investigator. She studies the hidden forces that drive … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 45: Captivate with Vanessa Van Edwards

Podcast Ep. 44: Adventures in Storytelling with Christopher Landry

Chris Landry has been telling stories professionally for 15+ years. When he worked as a fundraiser in non-profits, he found out that if he told a story about who the money was helping, it increased donor interest. He took his knack for storytelling and started Landry Communications, a firm that helps mission-driven organizations tell their stories … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 44: Adventures in Storytelling with Christopher Landry

Public Speaking As A Transformational Exercise with Angela Lussier

Hosted by Kit Pang, Founder of Boston Speaks. This webinar was recorded live on April 12. Watch the replay » What does public speaking mean for you? Is it something that makes you cringe when you know you have to speak in front of a large crowd or is it a moment that you live … Continue reading Public Speaking As A Transformational Exercise with Angela Lussier

Podcast Ep. 43: The Q&A Episode Again

Howdy, friends! I'm back this week with another installment of Q&A. This is my third episode like this (see episode 10 + 25 for the others) and I'm answering YOUR questions! Today I answer a question about how to deal with negative feedback and go deep into all types of feedback and what to do … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 43: The Q&A Episode Again

Speaker Sisterhood Adds Two New Public-speaking Clubs for Women (Business West)

NORTHAMPTON — The Speaker Sisterhood, a network of public-speaking clubs for women with clubs in Springfield, Amherst, and South Hadley, is adding two new clubs in Northampton and Greenfield for women who want to become more confident speakers. Both new clubs will be having open houses. The Northampton open house will be held on Thursday, … Continue reading Speaker Sisterhood Adds Two New Public-speaking Clubs for Women (Business West)

Podcast Ep. 42: The 2-for-1 Episode on Public Speaking and Improv with Angela Lussier and Pam Victor

In today’s episode, you’ll get to hear a unique approach to interviewing – the double interview! You’ll hear from Pam Victor, professional improviser and founder of Happier Valley Comedy School in western Massachusetts, as she interviews me for her podcast, Conversations with Funny Feminists, and I interview her for this podcast. It’s a 2-for-1 special … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 42: The 2-for-1 Episode on Public Speaking and Improv with Angela Lussier and Pam Victor

Podcast Ep. 41: Pro Marketing Tips for New Speakers with Kit Pang

Kit Pang says if he wrote a book, it would be called From Introvert to Extrovert. He generously shares his story of going from shy teenager to curious and determined entrepreneur in the field of public speaking. Just last year, he decided to refocus his career to help public speakers build their skills on stage … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 41: Pro Marketing Tips for New Speakers with Kit Pang

Don’t wait for perfect, launch your idea (Valley Venture Mentors)

“At VVM I learned to talk to my customers and really listen to what they need. Launching a minimum viable product and responding quickly is key. Don’t wait for perfect,” explained Speaker Sisterhood Founder Angela Lussier. Based in Holyoke, Mass., the Speaker Sisterhood helps women to build confidence, boost public speaking skills and maybe even change the world. Angela came up with the idea while participating in VVM’s Startup Accelerator program.Continue reading on Valley Venture Mentors »

Podcast Ep. 40: What I’ve Learned About Podcasting

Podcasting is an amazing way for speakers to share their advice, but is it the best content marketing tool for you? Since starting my podcast in June of last year, I've learned a lot. I'm celebrating my 40th episode by sharing my podcasting journey, the five main areas you need to consider before starting your … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 40: What I’ve Learned About Podcasting

Podcast Ep. 39: What Women Can Do Now, by Angela Lussier

We all saw the wild success of the Women’s Marches on January 21st. This Wednesday is The Day Without a Woman and International Women’s Day. These initiatives are doing a good job bringing women together and raising awareness, but what else can we do? Here are three strategies for building your own movement and showing up as a leader.

Finding Your Speaking Voice & the Power of Patience, by Angela Lussier

To someone who is trying to accomplish a goal, hearing the words, “Have patience” can be the most annoying sentence ever muttered. As someone who has struggled with running straight for the finish line without looking around along the way, I can say patience and I are not natural friends. We’re not enemies, but I … Continue reading Finding Your Speaking Voice & the Power of Patience, by Angela Lussier

Podcast Ep. 38: Your Body Tells the Story with Berit Elizabeth

Have you ever noticed yourself getting excited while listening to someone tell a story, even if the story wasn’t that good? What do you think happened? Chances are, the storyteller was using other elements of communication to gain your attention. She may have been using her body, her breath, her energy, or her tone to keep you interested. … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 38: Your Body Tells the Story with Berit Elizabeth

Voices of the Valley: Angela Lussier, Owner, Speaker Sisterhood, LLC

By Janice Beetle | Special to The Republican Angela Lussier, Owner, Speaker Sisterhood, LLC, Williams Street, Holyoke Years in business: One What do you offer and to whom? The Speaker Sisterhood is a brand new network of public speaking clubs for women who feel pulled to do something bigger and seek the confidence, public speaking … Continue reading Voices of the Valley: Angela Lussier, Owner, Speaker Sisterhood, LLC

Podcast Ep. 37: Discover Your Voice Via Adventure

“No matter where you’re from, how old you are, or what your background is, we’re a lot more alike than we think. Our strength comes from sharing experiences and being together and when you’re down, someone else will lift you up. It’s something we know is so special and so important when we build our … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 37: Discover Your Voice Via Adventure

My Personal Speaking Journey Year One, by Amber Ladley

I feel lucky to be a Speaker Sister, don’t you? I’ve been thinking lately about how the Speaker Sisterhood could not have come at a better time in our lives. Its purpose is to give us the opportunity to find our own voice, speak up, raise awareness, and spread good intentions. As a result, we … Continue reading My Personal Speaking Journey Year One, by Amber Ladley

Podcast Ep. 36: What if Fear Was Your Best Friend? with Christina Stathopoulos

Fear. It's one of the things that stops us from getting on stage, stops us from saying what's true for us, and stops us from asking for what we want. In today's episode, you'll learn how to reframe fear so it not only helps you, but walks alongside you like a good friend. My guest, … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 36: What if Fear Was Your Best Friend? with Christina Stathopoulos

Podcast Ep. 35: Tales from Speaking School, Part 2

Last week, I brought you a couple of interviews with the women of my speaking school. Today, I'm bringing you conversations with three more women who have graduated from my signature course, the Speaking School for Women. You'll hear from Sandra Costello, a photographer who experienced a life changing moment that made her reevaluate everything. … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 35: Tales from Speaking School, Part 2

Starting with the Truth, by Sandra Costello

I've always believed sharing what's important to you is one of the most meaningful things you can do with others, and it’s invigorating to see them do the same. Becoming a public speaker feels a bit like telling the truth about yourself and what you love. To me, this means telling the story of my life … Continue reading Starting with the Truth, by Sandra Costello

Podcast Ep. 34: Tales from Speaking School, Part 1

My signature program, the Speaking School for Women, is back February 21st. The school only opens twice a year and I'm often asked what the experience is like. In today's episode, I talk with a couple of the women who participated in it and ask them about their time in the school, what has happened since then, and their best advice for aspiring speakers and students.

Present Like a Pro Using the Speaker Sisterhood’s STAGE System by Angela Lussier

Early on in my public speaking journey, I was scheduled to give a persuasive speech at my public speaking club. Being new to this mysterious form of communication, I was eager to learn from those who were more experienced. I wanted to know, how do you do this thing that most people would call the … Continue reading Present Like a Pro Using the Speaker Sisterhood’s STAGE System by Angela Lussier

Podcast Ep. 33: The Power of Patience

After last week's episode about the STAGE System, I received a lot of questions about what it actually looks like to take the steps I outline in my method of speech craft. The questions weren't all simple -- many of them had an undertone of anxiety and fear that made me realize I needed to … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 33: The Power of Patience

Podcast Ep. 32: Present Like a Pro Using the STAGE System

Hey, friends! Welcome to my first episode of 2017. I'm back! Rather than make another boring slide show or endlessly rattle through tons of data, what if you could learn an approach that teaches you to build a presentation that showcases your personality, highlights your unique experiences, and allows you to deliver your stories and … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 32: Present Like a Pro Using the STAGE System

Podcast Ep. 31: The Secret of All Good Communication with Dr. Phyllis Mindell

Are you aware of how often you use weak language? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Phyllis Mindell, a pioneer and expert on professional communication, walks us through the many mistakes women make when it comes to sharing our opinions, giving feedback, presenting our work, and asking for what we want. She tells us: The one word … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 31: The Secret of All Good Communication with Dr. Phyllis Mindell

Podcast Ep. 30: Frazzled, Type A Women Unite with Kara Martin Snyder

Kara Martin Snyder has made a career of turning around chaotic, painful situations ranging from bankruptcy cases to constipation. Her wide ranging skills came from making a huge shift in her 20's after she realized her job was killing her. What she has done for herself and others since then is inspiring and a great example of … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 30: Frazzled, Type A Women Unite with Kara Martin Snyder

Podcast Ep. 29: Public Relations Tricks, Secrets + Myths for Speakers with Alison Podworski

Alison Podworski knew at the age of 9 that she wanted to be a television news reporter. After years on TV, she transitioned to work in PR and opened her own agency to assist small business owners, speakers, authors, and other types of clients with their PR needs. In today's episode, Alison shares her #1 … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 29: Public Relations Tricks, Secrets + Myths for Speakers with Alison Podworski

Podcast Ep. 28: Get the Gig! with Steve Markman

"Speaking is a great way to demonstrate thought leadership, expose your brand, and get business. Speaking is a business development effort.” --Steve Markman Today's guest is Steve Markman, president of Markman Speaker Management, a speaker placement firm. Steve helps speakers get both paid and unpaid speaking engagements by using his 30 years of event and … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 28: Get the Gig! with Steve Markman

Podcast Ep. 27: The Art of Interaction with Stacey Shipman

When Stacey Shipman was in 6th grade, she won the "Quietest Girl" award and now she is a brave communication expert who helps people do things they think they can't do. This episode is all about the art of the interaction and how to create a genuine connection with your audience through engagement. She teaches … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 27: The Art of Interaction with Stacey Shipman

Podcast Ep. 26: Embodiment: The Key to Less Fear and More Fun On Stage with Donna Brooks

What is "embodiment" and why will it make you a better, less fearful speaker? My guest Donna Brooks says, “Embodiment is living the fullness of your incarnated experience. It’s that moment when you feel rich and full of life in yourself. Without that, it doesn’t give our audience the fullness of what we can offer … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 26: Embodiment: The Key to Less Fear and More Fun On Stage with Donna Brooks

Podcast Ep. 24: Demystifying Public Speaking with Lara Hogan

Lara Hogan’s first public speaking experience was horrifying to say the least. Not only did she live to tell about it, she also continued speaking and has become an authority on the subject. Besides presenting on stage, Lara is also the author of the new book, Demystifying Public Speaking and an Engineering Director at Etsy. In this episode, you’ll … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 24: Demystifying Public Speaking with Lara Hogan

Podcast Ep. 23: Hairy Authenticity with Sally Zimney

We often hear that being our "authentic self" is the best way to connect with our audience and build a strong personal brand. But how do you show up on stage as yourself if you're new to speaking, scared of doing it wrong, and worried about where to put your arms? In this episode, speaker … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 23: Hairy Authenticity with Sally Zimney

Podcast Ep. 22: Success Secrets from a Public Speaking Expert with Laurie Schloff

Do you ever wonder if you're doing everything you can to be seen as a strong presenter with a confident voice? In this episode, public speaking expert Laurie Schloff teaches us how to create an effective message, how to deliver a speech like a boss, and how to get over fear and nervousness on stage. … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 22: Success Secrets from a Public Speaking Expert with Laurie Schloff

Podcast Ep. 21: Are You Up for an Adventure?

Hiking, bears, blisters, oh my! A few months ago, my friend and I set out on a seven day, 75 mile hike of the Appalachian Trail in Northern central Maine. Being an inexperienced hiker who is also Type A and goal oriented, you'll hear all the highlights (and low points) of what this hike held … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 21: Are You Up for an Adventure?

Podcast Ep. 20: Fun Legal Basics for Speakers with Sarah Feingold

Sarah Feingold was the first lawyer and 17th employee at Etsy. Now, she's General Counsel at Vroom.com, a public speaker, and a jewelry maker. In this episode, we talk (and laugh) about the legal basics for aspiring professional speakers. This includes how to act like a lawyer when creating and reading contracts, how to be … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 20: Fun Legal Basics for Speakers with Sarah Feingold

Podcast Ep. 19: Build Your Platform with Dorie Clark

As speakers, we know marketing ourselves is important. But how do you create a strong platform for yourself that adds to your credibility, social proof, and builds your brand? What about using content marketing to land you a publishing deal and subsequent paid speaking gigs? In this episode, Dorie dissects her key moves that took … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 19: Build Your Platform with Dorie Clark

Podcast Ep. 18: Create Your Speaker Brand 101

In-demand professional speakers become well known because they have perfected one very important part of their message. It’s the one major thing that sets them apart from the unknowns and you will learn it in this special live, interactive podcast I recorded on September 7th, 2016. In this class, you’ll learn the two most important … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 18: Create Your Speaker Brand 101

Speaker Sisterhood helps build women’s confidence in the workplace (Daily Hampshire Gazette)

NORTHAMPTON — Even with women in leadership roles in the corporate world, and others successfully running their own businesses, many remain afraid to speak up in the workplace. That’s an observation made by Angela Lussier, who runs Angela Lussier Enterprises from an office in Holyoke, and which prompted her to start the Speaking School for … Continue reading Speaker Sisterhood helps build women’s confidence in the workplace (Daily Hampshire Gazette)

Podcast Ep. 17: Can Introverts Be Pro Speakers? with Val Nelson

Val Nelson is an introvert and former wallflower who absolutely cringed at the idea of speaking in front of a room. She now actually likes public speaking, in small doses. She has faced her fear of self-employment and speaking up, and now enjoys having a thriving, soulful business as a life coach. Her specialty is … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 17: Can Introverts Be Pro Speakers? with Val Nelson

Podcast Ep. 16: Pep Talks + the Pursuit of Excellence with Thando Zono

Ever wondered what it would be like to have the abilities of a motivational speaker in your pocket? In this episode, I interview Thando Zono, a motivational speaker, author, All-American athlete, and my intern! You'll learn about how Thando wrote a book while also attending grad school, hear some of her advice for speakers, and … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 16: Pep Talks + the Pursuit of Excellence with Thando Zono

Podcast Ep. 15: We Need to Talk About Your Flair with Jim and Jenn Poage

If being memorable is something you care about as a speaker, this episode is for you. Jim and Jenn Poage are the authors of the book FLAIR: Design Your Daily Work, Products, and Services to Energize Customers, Colleagues, and Audiences. FLAIR shows how to add meaning and joy to your offerings and communications to create … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 15: We Need to Talk About Your Flair with Jim and Jenn Poage

Podcast Ep. 14: Are You Unwilling? with Martha Johnson

One day in the 1980s, Martha Johnson was concluding a three-day training of sales professionals when she asked the pivotal question that would forever change the direction of her work. She made the bold move to ask her audience if they were planning to implement what she had just taught them. Not a single person … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 14: Are You Unwilling? with Martha Johnson

Podcast Ep. 13: Do I Have to be Funny? with Cathy McNally

I’m often asked if being funny on stage is a prerequisite for “making it” in the speaking business. In this informative and entertaining interview with Cathy McNally, master of all things humor, you’ll find out whether or not tickling your audience’s funny bone is as important as you think. Cathy also teaches me two improv … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 13: Do I Have to be Funny? with Cathy McNally

Podcast Ep. 12: Are You in the 14%? with Heathere Evans-Keenan

If this interview was a breakfast cereal, it would be called “Ultimate Supreme 500 Ingredient Mashup.” We took this show in many different directions as I learned about my guest, Heathere Evans-Keenan, and her background, unexpected medical diagnosis, personal philosophy about sickness, and how her entire life (and work) changed. In this episode, we discuss: The 70,000 thoughts we have … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 12: Are You in the 14%? with Heathere Evans-Keenan

Podcast Ep. 11: Tips on Slaying Self-Sabotage with Kelly Coffey

Kelly Coffey is a personal trainer who used to weigh over 300 pounds. She is the voice behind the blog at strongcoffey.com where she helps women who struggle with their weight and their choices to get happily grounded in healthier habits. Her work gets down to the root of why we sabotage ourselves and the tools she teaches are just as … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 11: Tips on Slaying Self-Sabotage with Kelly Coffey

Podcast Ep. 10: Mystery Episode!

I'm so excited to announce my 10th episode! This felt like a major milestone, so I went all out and created a really fun mystery episode for you. Since the contents of this episode are a secret, I'll just say that you might hear about a sushi burrito, wild ponies, a 6 foot tall top … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 10: Mystery Episode!

Podcast Ep. 9: Secrets for Changing Your Money Mindset with Amber Dugger

Amber Dugger is a money geek, knitter, avid cyclist, wine lover, yogi, and lover of all things green.  She escaped her cubicle in July of 2015 after 15 years in soul-sucking corporate finance. Amber now combines holistic health coach training with her extensive financial background to guide fellow entrepreneurs in gaining clarity on their money … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 9: Secrets for Changing Your Money Mindset with Amber Dugger

Podcast Ep. 8: How to be a Thought Leader with Ken Lizotte

Ken Lizotte is author of The Expert’s Edge: Become the Go-To Authority that People Turn to Every Time (McGraw-Hill), the The Speaker’s Edge: The Ultimate Go-To Guide for Locating and Landing Lots of Speaking Gigs (Maven House Press) and five other books. Ken has also authored over 600 published articles including a weekly column for the … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 8: How to be a Thought Leader with Ken Lizotte

Podcast Ep. 7: Curious About Speakers Bureaus? with Diane Goodman

In episode 7, I talk to Diane Goodman, founder and president of Goodman Speakers Bureau in Windsor, Connecticut since 1979. Diane works closely with meeting planners to secure professional speakers, entertainers, thought leaders, business leaders, authors, celebrities, and sports figures. In this episode, Diane answers all of the most common questions she receives about speakers bureaus. You’ll … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 7: Curious About Speakers Bureaus? with Diane Goodman

Podcast Ep. 6: Top 10 Reasons People Don’t Speak Up with Leslie Karen Hammond

Leslie Karen Hammond is a speaker, author, and Confident Speaking Expert. Her new book, Keep It Real: Why We’re Afraid to Speak Up and What to do About it, is the subject of this week's podcast. I loved this book and Leslie had so many surprising answers when I asked her about specific tips and … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 6: Top 10 Reasons People Don’t Speak Up with Leslie Karen Hammond

Podcast Ep. 5: Reassuring Wisdom from Katy Tynan

Katy Tynan is a bestselling author, internationally recognized expert on how work is evolving, and was voted one of the best motivational speakers in Boston. Katy is the author of Survive Your Promotion! The 90 Day Success Plan for New Managers, and her most recent book is Free Agent: The Independent Professional's Roadmap to Self-Employment … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 5: Reassuring Wisdom from Katy Tynan

Podcast Ep. 4: From Pop Star to Master Negotiator with Ji Eun (Jamie) Lee

Ji Eun (Jamie) Lee is a professional speaker and negotiation trainer who lives in New York City. She specializes in hands-on negotiation workshops for ambitious women. She says, "Negotiation is a conversation with the intention of reaching an agreement where everyone has the right to say no." She believes that when women own their negotiation … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 4: From Pop Star to Master Negotiator with Ji Eun (Jamie) Lee

Podcast Ep. 3: Do You Know Your Audience’s Agenda? with Suzanne Bates

Suzanne Bates is the CEO of Bates, a firm with a mission to help leaders shape the world. As a coach to some of the world’s top executives, Suzanne’s passion is helping leaders align, engage, and move people to drive results for their organizations and the world around them. Her latest book, All the Leader … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 3: Do You Know Your Audience’s Agenda? with Suzanne Bates

Podcast Ep. 2: Life Advice from The Detourist with Amy Oestreicher

Episode 2 features my interview with Amy Oestreicher. Amy is a professional speaker, PTSD peer-to-peer specialist, artist, author, writer for The Huffington Post, speaker for TEDx and RAINN, health advocate, survivor, award-winning actress, and playwright. Amy eagerly shares the lessons learned from trauma through her writing, mixed media art, performance and inspirational speaking. A few … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 2: Life Advice from The Detourist with Amy Oestreicher

Podcast Ep. 1: Just Gonna Do This

Here it is! My first podcast episode. I've been thinking about starting a podcast since 2009 and thought it was time to roll one out, as imperfect as it may be. I decided to jump right in even though I don't have every single question answered yet and I'm still learning about the world of … Continue reading Podcast Ep. 1: Just Gonna Do This