Born and raised in a war-torn Croatia, Kristina and her family left everything to start over in the US. As a young adult, she faced divorce, poverty, single parenting, and her own mental health struggles. But her determination, quick wit, and deep compassion won her the crown for Oprah’s Search for the Next TV Star in 2011. Since then, Kristina Kuzmic’s story has been sprinkled with the fairy dust of commercial success. She has over a billion video views, a huge social media following, a beautiful family, and a financial trajectory that continues to climb steeply up and to the right.But Kristina would be the first to admit all that glitters is not gold (or even tin foil). And it’s her honesty about her imperfections that’s been the real magic in her impact. It’s her unfiltered struggles, failures, and invisible wins in motherhood, mental health, and the spotlight that has impacted millions and given her what she would say matters most.Kristina’s story then begs a question for those of us trying to perfect our speeches, our writing, our branding, our marketing funnels, our websites, and every other thing we’re “supposed” to do in order to launch and grow our businesses: Are we missing the point by trying to get things perfect?Yes, it’s important to learn and utilize the tools, insights, and playbooks proven to move our missions forward. But as we learn and apply them, how do we simultaneously stay true to our authentic selves? Because the truth is, it's our candor that gives us the power to help others, not our polished image.In our conversation with comedian, best-selling author, and sweatpants-wearer, Kristina Kuzmic, you’ll be reminded of why you wanted to help others in the first place and how building a business rooted in vulnerable imperfection might be exactly what you and your audience need most.Check out these magical moments:00:00:00 // Tomfoolery and banter00:06:15 // Introducing Kristina Kuzmic00:10:40 // What Kristina found resonated most with her audiences00:17:13 // Kristina's powerful mission statement00:24:14 // The pros and cons of working with big names and big agencies00:30:10 // Important questions to ask a client when booking your next speaking gig00:47:03 // What pro publishing lessons Kristina learned between her first and second books01:04:02 // A powerful perspective on how to best serve your audienceTo your meaningful impact,Josh ***Thanks to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***  CONNECT WITH KRISTINA Website: kristinakuzmic.comInstagram: kristinakuzmicMUSICFlourish by LondauFREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

This episode was designed to help YOU refocus and re-energize your speaking and writing endeavors.  Featuring some of the biggest and most trusted names in speaking and writing, you'll discover (or re-discover) a goldmine of easy-to-implement tips and tools from the podcast. You'll also be inspired by stories of how our guests successfully navigated some of the ups and downs inherent in this kind of work.Use the timeline below to quickly access the shiny gold nuggets of wisdom from each episode. And don't forget to check the credits for ways you can learn more about (and from) each of our captivating guests.Part One: Crafting & Delivering Your Speech00:02:35 // Nick Joiner on the importance of knowing your story00:05:31 // Mark Scharenbroich on what makes a speech memorable00:07:12 // Jason Hewlett on nailing your speech with audience engagement00:09:49 // Eva Daniels on pro tips for using humor in your speech00:11:39 // Blake Fly on the power of short-form video to get more gigs00:16:01 // Taes Leavitt on adapting your presentation to meet your audience's needs00:19:50 // Ketric Newell on how to discern the needs of your audience00:21:33 // Chase Mielke on how to best reach educators00:23:53 // Jason Hewlett on booking more gigs by giving some away00:25:10 // Dr. Julia Garcia on her secret ingredients for big audience impact00:27:61 // DK on creating virtual presentations that actually get results00:33:24 // Juan Bendana on how to land  a spot on the biggest stagesPart Two: Writing & Publishing00:37:55 // David Kim on creating timeless content00:39:35 // Aryn Van Dyke on the components of a bestselling book00:41:18 // Morgan Gist-MacDonald on how to build your book’s momentum00:43:08 // Tyler Merritt on elevating your book’s impact by writing with others00:44:22 // Mickey Rowe on tips for landing a book deal00:48:29 // Aryn Van Dyke on the marketing power of your table of contents00:50:38 // Morgan Gist-MacDonald on what your nonfiction book needs most00:53:25 // David Kim on building a bigger platform even when you don’t want to00:54:35 // Aryn Van Dyke on where to start with your marketing00:56:23 // Tyler Merritt on what every communicator needs to take seriously_______A very special thanks to each of our guests for sharing their stories and insights. You can learn more about each at:Nicki Joiner - nickijoiner.comMark Scharenbroich - nicebike.comJason Hewlett - jasonhewlett.comEva Daniels - thespeakshop.comBlake Fly - blakefly.comTaes Leavitt - bigheartjourney.comKetric Newell - ketric.tvChase Mielke - chasemielke.comDr. Julia Garcia - drjuliagarcia.comDK - justadandak.comJuan Bendana - juanbendana.comDavid Kim - davidjanghyunkim.comAryn Van Dyke - bookrockstar.comMorgan Gist-MacDonald - paperravenbooks.comTyler Merritt - thetylermerrittproject.comMickey Rowe - mickeyrowe.com***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***MUSICFlourish by LondauFREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Do you remember when the world nearly came to an end? When most of us thought the whole “coronavirus thing” was going to be wrapped up in a couple of weeks? A month at the most?Do you remember when there wasn't enough toilet paper to go around? Or when you knew for sure you were going to lose your mind because your kids would now be “distance learning?” of During that time most of us experienced significant upheaval in our work, our health, and our relationships — perhaps even our worldview. In many ways, we’re still picking up pieces and reimagining how we do life. Yet the truths we’ve been reminded of through so much loss, isolation, and worry continue to resound: Relationships are what matters most. Work that betters the lives of others is most satisfying. Keep extra rolls of toilet paper stashed all over your house, all the time.As speakers and writers, our work was especially upended by the pandemic. So what’s the best way forward, now that the world didn’t end?Josh Shipp knows those challenges and questions well. In the middle of the pandemic, he was leading a speaking bureau for dozens of people who could no longer book gigs. Traveling was off the table. As was gathering in large groups for live presentations. Virtual presenting was new, awkward, and in sparse demand. The future was one big question mark.Just a couple years later, however, the pendulum has swung the other way. Josh and his team can hardly keep up with the present demand for in-person presentations. In fact, his business has doubled, and is even adding speakers to the roster.So how did Josh get HERE from THERE? What did he learn about himself and his business along the way? And what does he believe the future looks like for speakers and writers like YOU? You’re going to discover all that and more in this special episode of SP&S, guest-hosted by our good friend, Blake Fly.In addition, you’ll learn:00:02:16 // Tomfoolery and banter00:07:38 // Introducing our guest host, Blake Fly00:14:22 // One of the biggest personal challenges Josh faced in the pandemic00:23:57 // How he leveraged his strengths (and weaknesses) to sustain and grow his business as the economy tanked00:48:26 // What he learned from the pandemic that he believes can equip speakers and writers for whatever new challenges come along00:55:56 // What Josh considers one of the biggest professional challenges we’re facing and how to overcome it01:05:02 // The top 10 things he’s grateful for learning and applying through the pandemic, into the present, and beyondJosh Shipp used to speak at 300+ events a year until he realized his bigger dream of leading a speaker’s bureau, writing books, coaching speakers, and spending more time with his family. He has hosted his own TV show, been celebrated and recommended by The Great O (Oprah), and recently started his own podcast. It’s called Stage, Page & Screen, and it’s time to crank it up.We hope you enjoy this special, guest-hosted, deep-dive conversation as much as we enjoyed having it!- The SP&S team***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***CONNECT WITH JOSHtopyouthspeakers.comjoshshipp.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joshshippMUSICFlourish by LondauFREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Public speaking is a skill that can be learned, developed, and even mastered. But the path toward mastery demands everything you’ve got: keen self-awareness, the humility to be a life-long student of the craft, and an unrelenting commitment to put in your time. Because more than anything, mastery requires putting in your "reps," delivering countless speeches in all kinds of venues to all kinds of audiences - for decades.It's the costly nature of mastery that makes it so rare. So when the opportunity comes along to talk with someone widely regarded by their peers as a master of their craft, you pull up a chair, lean in close, and take some serious notes.That’s what I had the opportunity to do when I sat down with Mark Scharenbroich, an Emmy award-winning, Hall of Fame speaker (and personal hero of mine) who’s been tenaciously honing his craft for more than 40 years.In this masterclass for speakers and presenters of every kind, Mark and I dive into:00:00:19 // Tomfoolery and witty banter (and jackhammer sounds)00:04:59 // Introducing Mark00:08:40 // How much you should customize your speech for a particular audience or event.00:15:36 // Why you must choose being clear over being clever.00:32:20 // How to ensure your delivery reaches every person in an audience no matter the venue (from old school gyms to high-end auditoriums).00:42:55 // How to answer the question: “Who comes first - the audience or the client?”00:51:25 // How to create content your audience will actually remember long after you’ve left the stage.00:56:15 // How to decide which kind of marketing is best for you.01:00:17 // How to cultivate and protect your most important relationships while building a successful speaking business.01:05:18 // How to successfully transition audiences (e.g., students to parents/teachers, education market to corporate)01:11:59 // What characteristics make a speaker extraordinary?Pull up your chair and get ready to jot down a notebook's worth of pages. You're about to become a genuinely better writer and speaker.Enjoy!-Josh ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***   CONNECT WITH MARK Website: nicebike.comLinkedIn: mark-scharenbroich-nice-bike MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com 

In order to grow your income and impact you need to identify and embrace your "core message." A core message is like a life theme that is uniquely yours. It's formed by your experiences, temperament, talents, and gifts. If categories like topics, styles, and target audiences were flowers, your core message would be the root system connecting and feeding them all. Some might call it your "why" or your "calling" or your "Inner Red Power Ranger" (just us?).  Whatever you call it, you have to understand it so that your decisions can be guided by it and not by an anxious striving to pick the most marketable topic or technique. Nicki Joiner understands the importance of identifying your core message. More importantly, she's in the thick of it herself. And her journey to identify it (and the insight she's gleaned along the way) are PURE GOLD.In this episode, we'll get to the gold through:00:00:35 // Witty banter & tomfoolery00:04:45 // Introducing Nicki Joiner00:11:11 // Discovering how "working on yourself" is critical to unveiling your core message00:15:42 // Asking the question: How clear should your core message be before you're ready to go public with it?00:20:00 // Finding the link between your core message and your decision-making00:24:20 // Listening in on the back and forth between Nicki and Josh as they discuss the "Shipp-tastic Ultimate Venn Diagram of Feedback & Success" (Editor's note: title pending): a Venn Diagram  with the potential to launch an overwhelmingly successful next chapter of your life and business (Editor's other note: Josh didn't make this claim but the editor does).Nicki Joiner is a public speaker and consultant who helps people navigate diverse environments with confidence and understanding. She takes a practical approach to addressing some of the most pressing issues in companies and organizations across North America. Nicki regularly speaks about community-building, confidence, self-awareness, and inclusion with companies like NASA, Girls, inc., Meeting Professionals International (MPI), and over sixty colleges and universities.Join the conversation now and enjoy the pure gold that is Nicki Joiner! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***   CONNECT WITH NICKINicki's website: http://nickijoinerNicki on Insta: @thatsoniickki  MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Launching a book - whether as a first-time author or as a publishing superstar - is an exceedingly challenging endeavor. It involves both art and science.And maybe a little secret sauce.Not many people know that better than Aryn Van Dyke, owner of Book Rockstar, a book launch consultancy that helps authors develop marketing strategies, build their brand, sell more books, and “ feel like a rockstar throughout the process.” From growing an author’s platform to choosing just the right editorial quote for a book’s front cover, Aryn has seen what works and what definitely doesn’t when it comes to turning ideas into bestsellers. The result? A heaping plateful of insight and tools that could take YOUR book idea to the top of the charts..  On this exciting episode of SP&S you’ll learn:00:00:00 // Tomfoolery and banter00:02:56 // Introducing Aryn Van Dyke00:05:11 // What first-time authors do for a successful launch00:12:39 // How to successfully grow a platform00:23:00 // What your role in marketing your book should look like00:44:27 // How to develop content that will connect with an even bigger audience01:02:13 // How to define your niche in the Amazon marketplace01:24:57 // The reality of author platforms and what publishers are looking forAryn Van Dyke is a nonfiction book launch consultant and author coach. She spent five years at HarperCollins helping authors promote their books and build their brand. She’s worked on more than 100 book launches, including multiple New York Times bestsellers, spanning across multiple nonfiction genres.Our delicious conversation with Aryn Van Dyke spills over with practical tips and behind-the-scenes insight as she delivers a recipe for successfully launching your book. Bon Appetit!***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***  CONNECT WITH ARYN Aryn’s website: http://bookrockstar.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryn-van-dyke/Instagram: @thebookmarketerMUSICFlourish by LondauFREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Preparing a great presentation takes more than just practice.It takes learning about your audience, developing channels of communication with them before and after, seeking feedback from trustworthy voices, revising and reiterating until your eyes are blurry. It also requires some personal reflection to discover WHY you’re doing things the way you are.  DK (yes, that’s his full legal name) is an expert guide when it comes to the entire preparation process. Having helped hundreds of speakers prepare and deliver their content, he knows the subtle differences between practicing and preparing. More importantly, he knows the difference between being just another talking head and being a truly engaging speaker that can bring insight and transformation to their audience. On this episode of SP&S you’ll learn:00:00:00 // Tomfoolery and banter00:02:10 // Introducing DK00:07:02 // Helpful tips on how to best use slides in your presentation00:26:52 // The critical thing DK learned by “faking” his way through a TedX talk00:32:26 // An unconventional (and potentially game-changing) approach to crafting your speech01:00:55 // Pro tips on developing and presenting your content virtually01:25:37 // What your responsibility is toward your audienceDK is a sought after speaker coach that helps leaders craft and deliver impressive presentations. For nearly ten years he organized and ran TedX Wellington (in New Zealand’s capital city). Hailing from Wales, formerly making his home in New Zealand, and now living in England, DK's international reputation and platform  allows him to  serve leaders around the world with his expertise (and his love for Minimalism). His insights and experience will absolutely help YOU better prepare great presentations that will impress and serve your audience well.We hope you enjoy all the goodness and “rolled ‘R’s” in this episode as much as we did! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** CONNECT WITH DK DK’s website: http://justadandak.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justadandak/DK's TED x talk (discussed in the podcast): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSp78RwcAS4DK's video podcast (mentioned in the podcast), CreativeWelly MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com  

Confidence is necessary for building a satisfying and impactful life. Without it, we can miss opportunities to help others, feeling like “we don’t have what it takes.” Or move through life under a dark cloud of shame assuming we’re just “not enough” somehow.At the same time, we know there are pitfalls found in over-confidence. We’ve felt the emotional exhaustion that comes from trying to “fake it until we make it.”So what does having real confidence really mean? And how do we grow it in areas where we lack it? This episode’s guest has some game-changing insight and experience to offer any of us that struggle with confidence (i.e., all of us).Juan Bendana went from dreaming about becoming a speaker in one moment to taking the main stage of education’s biggest event in the next. In between those moments, he had to face the ability he lacked while jumping whole-heartedly into an incredible opportunity. Those lessons - and the many he’s learned since while building a successful speaking business and getting a book deal with a major publisher - are now yours to glean.In addition, you’ll find:00:00:50 // Witty banter and tomfoolery00:07:40 // An only-partially successful introduction of Juan Bendana00:17:10 // How Juan confronted his inexperience and insecurity00:24:20 // How to REALLY get to the biggest stages00:43:09 // The details of Juan’s pre-big-event routine00:55:05 // How over-confidence can trip you up01:13:56 // The two-word secret to writing a bestselling bookJuan Bendana is an internationally-recognized keynote speaker that helps audiences build the confidence necessary to thrive in a changing world. Over the past decade, Juan has interviewed the top CEO’s, Olympians, actors and peak performers across every industry. From his research, the Confidence Cycle was born — a science-backed framework that helps leaders boost engagement and confidence so they can thrive in work and life.So press play and enjoy the wisdom (and infectious energy) Juan has to share! CONNECT WITH JUANWebsite: juanbendana.comInstagram: @juanbendana ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE TRAINING: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

As communicators, we pour our hearts, minds, and bodies into what we do. We put ourselves out there - on stages, pages, and screens - in the service of others. We try not to hold anything back. “Leave it all on the stage” is our motto.But what about our faith? Is that something we need everyone to see from the stage or up on a screen? Are we hiding (or even lying) if we don’t talk about our faith as much as we talk about everything else? Is it important we share whatever faith or belief system we have, in whatever form we can, if we’re going to be true to ourselves and others?Those are questions this episode’s guest has wrestled with for years in a variety of contexts. Former youth pastor turned nonprofit founder turned full-time speaker, Ketric Newell, has found some answers along the way. He’s also discovered some helpful questions that shape how he’s integrating his faith and work.Here’s where we’re going:00:00:00 // Silly banter00:01:22 // Introducing Ketric00:05:49 // A framework for marketing yourself while being true to a belief system rooted in humility00:15:29 // How to keep your content fresh - for you and for your audiences00:33:30 // How to integrate what you’re learning from “growing in your faith” with your current message or audience00:42:20 // Why and how personal growth is key to growing your impact on others01:08:28 // How to become more action-oriented and not get bogged down in distracting ideasIn a world where faith can often be weaponized, how do we communicate hope and practical help that respectfully meets others where they’re at, regardless of their beliefs or ours?Whether you’re a person of faith, an agnostic, an atheistic, or a worshipper of giant, invisible cats named Tony, you’re going to feel welcome in this conversation and will glean some powerful tools and tips from Ketric that to make your speaking and writing soar. Let’s do this. ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***CONNECT WITH KETRICKetric's website: http://ketric.tvKetric's speaking site: https://topyouthspeakers.com/speakers-topics/ketric-newellKetric's Teen Dream Center: https://www.teendreamcenter.com/Instagram: @ketricINTRO MUSICFlourish by LondauFREE Training! Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Self-publishing is no longer a stigmatized hobby (“Oh, you couldn’t attract a real publisher, huh?”). It’s the path to potentially big impact and income.Louise Ross, for example, has sold over 7 million copies of her self-published books worldwide, and 18 of her novels have hit #1 on various bestseller lists. Mark Dawson pulls in a seven-figure income from his self-published crime novels. And the exponential increase in demand for self-publishing insight and tools has given rise to  industry-disrupting ventures like the one created by this episode’s brilliant guest, Morgan Gist MacDonald.Morgan started in traditional publishing but soon ventured out to form her own company, Paper Raven Books, designed to combine the best of traditional publishing with the control and speed of self-publishing. Her hard work and experience translates into the best ways to market your book. In this episode, you’ll hear:00:00:00 // Witty banter00:06:18 // Morgan’s intro00:09:41 // The critical importance of creating teams for crafting, editing, and marketing your book00:22:10 // How to grow your mailing list with book links and opt-ins00:49:13 // The pros and cons of self, traditional, and hybrid-publishing01:08:16 // How to choose the best category for your book01:24:53 // How to get a steady stream of great reviews for your bookSelf-publishing is no longer a backup plan for authors that couldn’t make it in traditional publishing. It’s quickly becoming a proven and powerful way to take your book from idea to bestseller, in less time and with more money-making potential.So get ready to turn that book idea into something REAL.Enjoy!***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***  CONNECT WITH MORGANMorgan's website: Paper Raven BooksMorgan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-gist-macdonald/Paper Raven Books' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/6625040/admin/Morgan's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morgangmacPaper Raven Books' Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaperRavenBooksMorgan's X: https://twitter.com/morgangmacPaper Raven Books' X: https://twitter.com/PaperRavenBooks Paper Raven Books' YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/paperravenbooksMorgan's Instagram: https://instagram.com/morgangmac Paper Raven Books Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paperravenbooksllc/MUSICFlourish by Londau 

What happens when someone with a hit TV show decides to transfer their finely-honed skills and years of experience into a keynote speech? Five people show up.That was Taes Leavitt’s experience as she began reinventing her life and her work after years of writing and performing in her own award-winning TV show. It was humbling to say the least. Taes had to reevaluate who she was and what (and why) she was doing. And as she did, she discovered a new world of opportunities, personal growth, and dynamic impact on the kinds of audiences she cared about most: elementary-aged kids.Speaking to the K-5th grade crowd is no easy feat. You have to hold the space and keep their attention while delivering simple insights and practical tools  young kids can actually understand and apply. But resources for that age group are rapidly becoming more important than ever, and when Taes recognized that and decided the bumps and bruises of starting over were worth it, she discovered a level of connection and impact like never before.On this episode of SP&S you’ll learn:00:00:00 // Tomfoolery and banter00:04:13 // Introducing Taes Leavitt00:08:25 // How Taes pivoted from screen to stage00:17:28 // Why you may have to integrate “audience training” into you presentations00:23:58 // A critical insight into the power of ego and the imposter syndrome00:37:42 // Pro tips on how to write and remember your speech00:48:15 // Helpful insights from Taes’ crash course in script-writing for her own TV showTaes (pronounced: TESS) has spent the last 15 years creating empowering television and stage content for kids as one half of the musical duo, Splash’N Boots. Her goal is to empower kids to move confidently through their big feelings. Her research has revealed the number one thing that holds people back is not knowing how to navigate big feelings— such as bullying, failure, guilt, sadness, and heartbreak.Taes’ insight into children’s entertainment combined with developmental psychology and mindfulness training has led to the creation of her child psychologist-recommended program for kids called the Big Heart Journey. Whether your target audience is the under-10-crowd or not,  you’ve likely had a “do over” or three along the way. Taes’ stories and insights will help you better navigate those pivotal moments and build a better, stronger, more authentic way of impacting your audiences. Enjoy the show! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** CONNECT WITH TAESTaes' website: http://bigheartjourney.comTaes' former gig: http://splashnboots.com/Instagram: @bigheartjourney Facebook: bigheartjourney INTRO MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE Training! Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com 

Remodeling your kitchen without any tools will likely result in something your friends, family, and neighbors  joke about for years to come. Because even if you’re strong enough to drive a nail through a board with your bare hands, a good ol’ hammer will always win the day. And save you some serious discomfort.Let’s apply that analogy to public speaking.Jumping on a stage and hoping for the best will never match the power and impact of preparing well. We all know that intuitively, but how do we do it practically? Presentation coach Eva Daniel has some brilliant insight and a host of tools she’s used for years to turn even the most accomplished speakers into even better speakers. Now you and I get to enjoy a master class with Eva that can help all of us remodel our presentations into something an audience will admire and be transformed by.More specifically, you’ll learn:00:00:00 // Tomfoolery and banter00:02:53 // Introducing Eva Daniel00:08:03 // How to contextualize your speech for even greater impact00:11:10 // How to measure how well your speech is connecting with an audience00:33:40 // What worked and what didn’t in one of Josh’s Tedx speeches when we asked Eva to dissect it in real-time00:57:30 // Why it’s critical to find and lean into your “authentic voice”Eva Daniel is the founder of The Speak Shop, a boutique speaker-coaching business that helps thought leaders develop and deliver compelling content. She spent a couple decades working with some of the nation’s top authors, speakers, pastors, innovators, renegades, and rebel-rousers, producing broadcasts, podcasts, YouTube shows, and writing speeches. Grab your notebook and get ready for a masterclass in speaking and presenting that will level-up your speaking game, whether you’re just starting out or speaking full-time. Enjoy our delightful and enlightening conversation with Eva!***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***CONNECT WITH EVAEva’s website: http://thespeakshop.comwww.linkedin.com/in/eva-rose-danielEva’s free e-book: 12 Questions You Must Ask For A Killer SpeechMUSICFlourish by LondauFREE Training: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Our words matter.The ones we choose to use and the ones we choose to leave out. The medium in which we share them. The tone with which they’re shared. Whether heard or read by millions, or spoken only in our minds (consider the health benefits of “positive self-talk”).  Anytime and anywhere words are used, they have an impact. They matter.Consider Tyler Merritt and his experience of becoming a viral media sensation by simply sharing a single page’s worth of thoughtfully-considered words. Words he made up a couple hours before recording them on free video-recording software late one night at a friend’s house.Words he then uploaded to YouTube at 2am to share with a few friends and family members.Words he discovered (when he woke up a few hours later) had been heard by over a million people. Then 20 million. And now more than 100 million and counting.One page worth of words that led to interviews with all the big news outlets, retweets and shares by A-list celebrities, appearances on late night talk shows, a huge book deal, and a positive, measurable impact on culture during a particularly challenging time in American history.In other words (see what we did there?), Tyler Merritt knows the power of words chosen wisely. That’s why in our conversation with him, you’re going to learn:00:00:00 // Tomfoolery & Banter00:03:11 // Introducing Tyler Merritt00:44:04 // How to approach a publisher with confidence00:47:31 // Strategies for creating a buzz about your book00:55:39 // Pro tips for writing and publishing a children’s book01:10:12 // How to create impactful words through the power of observationTyler Merritt is an actor, author, comedian, musician, social commentator, and all around delight (as you’ll hear). He has numerous TV and film credits, and can even claim a place in the Marvel universe. His book, I Take My Coffee Black, chronicles his unique experience of racial tension and reconciliation, creating change through community, and doing it all with a smile. We hope you enjoy the many inspiring, thought-provoking, and downright funny words that came out in our interview with Tyler! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** CONNECT WITH TYLERInstagram: @thetylermerrittprojectFacebook: The Tyler Merritt ProjectTwitter: @TTMProjectTyler’s book: I Take My Coffee Black MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE Training!! Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

Why is teacher burnout sky-rocketing despite an increase in professional development for educators?In Chase Mielke’s experience as both teacher and trainer, he’s found most pro-dev efforts designed to support educators miss the mark. Why? Because, ironically, they’re bogged down in how-tos, theories, and untested application. What’s actually needed, according to Chase, is more compassion, empathy, and tools that have been tested in the harsh conditions of real-world classrooms. In this episode, you’ll learn:The critical differences between keynote speaking and professional development (16:55)What teachers really think about the content you’re delivering (21:08)What “gradient” is in relation to your audience and how leveraging it will make you a better speaker/facilitator (25:48)What to pitfalls to beware of in your presentations that could turn the audience off (49:00)Online course creation tips and tricks (1:14:45)Chase Mielke is an award-winning educator, writer, and speaker focused on preventing teacher burnout while increasing student engagement. His writing has been featured on Educational Leadership, WeAreTeachers, Huffpost, Edutopia, and EdPost. Chase’s viral blog and video, “What Students Really Need to Hear,” has been viewed millions of times worldwide. As an engaging, nationally recognized speaker, he’s traveled across the US and around the world to speak with students and educators about resilience, mindset, applied neuroscience, and positive psychology. Chase is also the best-selling author of The Burnout Cure: Learning to Love Teaching Again.Chase Mielke knows the value of healthy, engaged educators, and is on a mission to help teachers love teaching again. Learn how you, too, can better serve educators as you put Chase’s insights, experience, and humor into play through your own speaking and writing. Trust us, this episode is going to blow you away. Enjoy! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** CONNECT WITH CHASEInstagram & Twitter: @chasemielkeMore about Chase’s speaking: https://topyouthspeakers.com/speakers-topics/chase-mielkeChase’s website: affectiveliving.comChase's book: The Burnout Cure: Learn To Love Teaching Again MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE Training: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com!

What do Ricky Martin, Elton John, and the Chipmunks have in common? No, it’s not that they’re all (arguably) past their prime. Rather, it’s that each one is deftly impersonated by Jason Hewlett, the Vegas performer turned Hall of Fame keynote speaker, and our guest this week on Stage, Page & Screen. Jason had a successful career in Vegas with his long-running “One Man Show,” a performance that featured his impersonations, singing, and humor. It was a massive hit. But after more than a decade of performing, he felt burnt out, emotionally and physically. He was forced to reimagine his life and his work.Jason decided to import the most engaging parts of his show into the format and formality of a corporate keynote. The combination was a hit (if you watch his videos you’ll understand why). It wasn’t long before calls started coming in, inviting him to bring his unique style of entertainment, inspiration, and education to audiences around the globe. In this episode, you’ll learn:Using humor to bolster your message, not distract. (27:45)How to personalize and simplify your slides for a stronger presentation. (33:38)How to disrupt the norms (and even speak for free!) in order to get more gigs. (52:26)How to balance what gets you excited with what organizations are buying. (57:20)Pro tips on prepping your host for your audio needs. (1:02:54)Jason’s thoughts on coaching & hiring coaches to help you grow (1:27:26)Having delivered thousands of presentations over the last two decades, Jason Hewlett is the only speaker in the world teaching leadership skills, tools, and mindsets in such a powerfully unconventional way. With out-of-the-box performances of uncanny musical and comedy impressions of incredible stage legends, Jason’s keynote,The Promise, is a speech that feels like a show, entertainment that feels like enlightenment, and music that feels like a difference-maker. We know you’re going to like this one, tiny dancer. So keep livin’ la vida loca and press PLAY right now! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** Connect with Jason Instagram: @jasonhewlettjasonhewlett.com Intro MusicFlourish by Londau FREE Training: Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

 It’s been said the further we go into the details of our own story, the more universal our story becomes.In other words, when we dig down to the core of who we are, we find we all have a lot in common. We all want to feel loved and accepted. We all want to know we matter, that we have significance. We all want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. It’s the commonalities that make it possible to connect with one another despite our countless differences.Mickey Rowe learned this truth in the school of hard knocks (and other schools of better reputation). Growing up with autism and legally-blind, Mickey often stood out, though not always in the way he wanted. But those difficult experiences of feeling different, on the outside, out of alignment with what’s “normal,” equipped him to help others feel seen and heard, and to know they matter. Mickey’s learned ability to connect at a heart-level has made him a hit with audiences of every  kind, from small elementary schools to the biggest stage on Broadway. In fact, Mickey was the first autistic actor to play Christopher Boone, the lead role in the Tony award-winning play, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. He also played the title role in Amadeus (another Tony award-winning play). Mickey was the founding Artistic Director of National Disability Theatre, which works in partnership with Tony Award-winning companies. He’s also the author of the award-winning, bestselling book, Fearlessly Different. In this episode, you’ll learn:What publishers are looking for (8:06)How to pitch your proposal or book idea to an agent (15:05)Tips on selecting a best-fit publisher for your book (21:32)Public speaking tools from the biggest stage on Broadway (43:46)The hilarious true story of Mickey’s book launch catastrophe (1:12:17)Mickey’s story is utterly unique, yet it clearly reflects the universal longings we all have for significance, belonging, and transcendence. The differences that make him “stand out” are the gifts he now shares with each of us, enabling us to become more human and more connected in our shared experience.Enjoy! ***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: *** CONNECT WITH MICKEYhttp://mickeyrowe.comhttps://topyouthspeakers.com/speakers-topics/mickey-roweinstagram @therealmickeyrowe INTRO MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE Training! Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com

No dream is fully realized in a vacuum.Creative endeavors are most often born from one person’s idea, dream or ambition. Whether taking the form of a speech, a book, a business, a political revolution – or any of the other countless ways humans create culture – a single person’s vision is typically the catalyst. But those solo-born dreams, ideas, or ambitions can’t be fully realized without the help of others: friends, family, editors, feedback groups, audiences, etc. Without the input and influence of many voices, any endeavor will lack energy, focus, and the ability to create real and lasting change. David Kim slammed face-first into that reality when he decided to write a book. Having written and delivered hundreds of speeches, Kim was a well-respected thought leader in his community. He assumed his ideas would naturally translate into a great book about belonging. But speaking and writing a book, he soon learned, were two different animals, each with its own unique set of challenges. Thankfully, in the long journey to becoming a published author, David Kim discovered the overwhelming benefits of “writing with the door open.” In so doing, he managed to write a critically-acclaimed book and create the kind of transformative community he was writing about.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to translate your speaking ability into writing a book (7:27)The benefits of creating a focus group for your writing project (14:36)Finding direction and clarity about your book’s relevance (32:15)How to find a “best fit” publisher (44:55)The challenges and opportunities of building a platform before the book (52:57)Born in Seoul, Korea, David Kim moved to the US as a young person. New to the language, culture, and unspoken social dynamics, he experienced the disorientation and loneliness that often accompanies such a dramatic change. The experience eventually led to his passion for helping others find safe spaces to belong and thrive.David does much of his creative work as the Pastor of Discipleship and Formation at WestGate Church, a multi-ethnic, multisite church in the heart of Silicon Valley.  He also works as an executive board member of Mustard Seed Generation, a mental health nonprofit providing resources for the Korean American community's healing & well-being.As David found, it's the universal need for community drives much of our creative work. And as it turns out, community is also the key for turning creative dreams into full-grown, world-changing art. Listen in as we pick David’s beautiful mind about what he learned along the way and what YOU can do to turn your dream of writing into reality.Enjoy!***Thanks as always to our sponsor, YOUTH SPEAKER UNIVERSITY. At YSU, you can learn how to launch and grow your speaking business, write and publish your book, and launch your online course! Watch the intro video NOW: ***CONNECT WITH DAVIDWebsite: davidjanghyunkim.comInsta: @davidjanghyunkimWestgate Churchmustardseedgeneration.org DAVID'S BOOKMade To Belong: Five Practices For Cultivating Community In A Disconnected World INTRO MUSICFlourish by Londau FREE Training! Learn how to grow your impact and income on stage, page, and screen at https://stagepagescreen.com